Acts 27:9-11

New International Version (NIV)

Much time had been lost, and sailing had already become dangerous … But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.

For Meditation

I could hear the frustration and anger in his voice when he called. “I should have left Ghana several days ago, but you know Ghana; things don’t work on schedule, making business so difficult?” A few days later, he called again. This time, it was about his father. He was gravely ill and had to be hospitalized, needing intensive care in a broken and complicated hospital system. What a relief it was for his ailing mother to have her son around to lead in the complex navigation through the corrupted system. Do you see how God works?

It is part of our fallen nature to want and expect things now, so we become restless when things don’t work within our set times. Many of us have kicked and complained because we thought we lost time. Worst of all, many have blamed and accused God because things didn’t happen according to our pre-set timing.

But do we ever consider what God may do in all of that? Do we have any idea what He may prevent or set up to meet a critical need?

For my family, my nephew’s disappointment and frustration turned out to be a blessing, but it was no fun for the passengers on the cargo ship that was transporting Paul to Rome (Acts 27:1-44). They had lost much time in Fair Haven, and sailing had become dangerous already (9). Paul advised against setting sail because of the potential danger to the ship, cargo, and passengers (10). The Centurion had the call, and he went by the pilot, shipowner, and majority decision, hoping to reach a better harbor in Phoenix and winter there (9-11). Unfortunately, they did not. The opportunity the gentle south wind presented gave way to the Northeaster hurricane and sent them into a shipwreck (41). If only they had listened to Paul and waited!

What do you do when you lose “much time” (9)? Can you process things from God’s perspective rather than through the pressure of time? Can you trust the purpose of God for everything—even your disappointments? Wouldn’t it be helpful to your nerves?

At such times, we must remember God’s gracious word of encouragement in Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” You do not have to fret when you lose time in any situation, but trust and thank the Lord for His providence and gracious hand at work for your good and His glory.

It is well!

Pray With Me

Father, please help us to be patient when thing don’t happen according to our pre-set timing, trusting in your providence and love, because you know what is best for us. Amen.