July 10

Courage to Face Life’s Storms

Today’s Scripture Readings:  Psalm 147:12-20 | 1 Chronicles 9:1-10:14 | Acts 27: 21-44 | Proverbs 18: 23-24 

Today’s Scripture Focus: Acts 27:21-44 

The storm was so devastating and went on for so long that they “finally gave up hope of being saved” (Acts 27:20 NIV).  

The storm was so devastating and went on for so long that they “finally gave up hope of being saved” (Acts 27:20). They were overwhelmed by the storm. Have you ever been there? Confronted by a seemingly hopeless situation? Tempted to give up all hope? Sure, we all have.

What was Paul’s advice to his fellow shipmates? “Keep up your courage” (22) “Do not be afraid” (words passed on to him by an angel—did you ever notice how often angels use those words, it must be advice we need again and again) (24). “So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.”

Paul took comfort in the promise of God given to him. He trusted in the promise of God and it enabled him to have courage even in the face of what seemed a life-threatening storm. Because he trusted in God, he was able to find hope in an apparently hopeless situation. Because he feared God, he didn’t have to fear the storm. I’m often struck by how often the Bible’s heroes need to hear the same words that you and I do: “Be strong and courageous,” “Do not be afraid,” “I will be with you.”

May the blessing of Paul to the Romans be yours as you face the storms of life: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him that you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 15:13).

We serve a God of hope who will give us hope and courage (even joy and peace) when we trust Him. Rest in that promise and find peace for your soul even in the midst of the storm.

God of Hope, fill me me with all joy and peace today as I trust in you so that I will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.