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

Have you ever felt restless when things don’t turn out the way you wanted? It’s common to feel frustrated or disappointed, especially when it seems like time has been wasted. Sometimes, we even wonder why God lets things happen the way they do or feel upset with Him when life doesn’t go as we planned.

But do we ever pause to consider what God might be doing in these moments? Are we aware that He might be protecting us or preparing to help us in ways we don’t see?

A few years ago, I had a call from my nephew who vented his frustration about his travel plans out of Ghana. “I should have left town some days ago, but, you know, Ghana; things don’t work according to the clock, and that makes business so difficult.” Those frustrating delays, however, soon turned into a blessing. His father became very ill and needed to go to the hospital, which was another exasperating experience in Ghana then. My nephew’s presence there made all the difference. What would his sick mother have done without him? This reminds me that God’s timing can have a greater purpose.

In my family’s case, Kwame’s disappointment became a blessing. But the people traveling with Paul to Rome had a different experience (Acts 27:1-44). Their shipwreck (41) happened partly because they ignored Paul’s advice when they got frustrated with the delays (9-11).

How should we respond when we face long delays (9)? Can we try to see these times from God’s perspective instead of giving in to frustration? Can we trust God’s purpose, even when we feel let down? Trusting like this can bring comfort and peace. As Solomon says, “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride” (Eccl. 7:8).

I hope that during these times, we remember Paul’s encouraging words: “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” (Romans 8:28).

So, I encourage you to stay calm and listen to wise advice when you face delays. Try to be thankful for God’s care and notice how He is working for your good and His glory.

All is well.

Pray with Me

What a wonderful Father I have, who knows everything and arranges all things, even the timing, to meet my needs. Help me, Lord, to be patient and wait for your timing, even when I want answers right away. I pray this in the worthy name of your Son, Jesus Christ, my Eternal Savior and Lord. Amen.

Photo by Mosxonas_D A on Pexels.com