Today in chapel, Dr. Zach Bowden took us through Acts 27, in which we find the Apostle Paul on a perilous journey across the sea to Rome. A violent storm is raging, and the lives of everyone on board the ship are at risk. Yet, in the midst of this storm, Paul stands out as a beacon of courage and hope. His example offers us profound lessons about the nature of true courage, faith, and God’s grace.

One of the first things we learn from this passage is that courage is not something we muster up on our own but rather something given to us by God. In verses 23–24, Paul recounts a vision he had of an angel from God telling him, "Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you." Paul’s courage in the face of death was not based on his own strength but on the promises of God. Just as Jesus had encouraged Peter when he walked on water, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27), Paul heard and believed every word of the Lord’s message, knowing he was not alone.

Paul’s courage didn’t come from his control over the situation. In fact, he had none. The ship was at the mercy of the storm, and the sailors were desperately trying to keep it afloat. But Paul, secure in his faith, knew he belonged to the Maker of the seas, the One who had authority over the winds and waves. This realization shifts our perspectives too when we feel out of control in life’s storms. What do we do when we realize we have no control? We trust in the God who holds the world in His hands and never abandons His children.

Paul’s life was a testimony to the life of Jesus Christ. Through trials, shipwrecks, imprisonments, and hardships, Paul never stopped proclaiming the Gospel. He gave thanks to God in all circumstances, believing that true life arises from Christ’s promises. Even in the darkest times, Paul understood that God’s grace is for the unworthy, and that grace was always sufficient to carry him through.

God used the shipwreck to save everyone on board. No one on that ship, including Paul, could have anticipated that such a disaster would result in salvation. But this is the way God works: He brings good out of even the most dire situations. In the same way, God said “no” to our sin and destruction, sending His Son to save us from eternal death. Paul’s boldness in the face of death mirrored Christ’s willingness to face the cross for our sake.

In Romans 8:35, Paul asks, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” The answer is simple: no one and nothing. Paul’s life and his unwavering faith in the promises of God challenge us to trust fully in the Lord, no matter how severe the storm. God is faithful, and He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Let us be dedicated to the ministry of encouragement, just as Paul was. In the midst of trials, we can encourage others with the same courage and hope that God has given us. When we remember that nothing can separate us from God’s love, we can face life’s storms with confidence, knowing that His grace is always enough.