[S] Acts 27:35-37 --
35Having said this, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of all, and he broke it and began to eat. 36All of them were encouraged and they themselves also took food. 37All of us in the ship were two hundred and seventy-six persons.
[O] Paul comforted and injected strength and hope to the 275 people on board by encouraging them and to break the bread after giving thanks to God. Today's sermon was about becoming the glowing "stars" in the darkness (this world we live in), and Paul was just that to these people who were watching him. As soon as they witnessed Paul they were encouraged and they also ate food and gained strengths. Before this situation, they ignored Paul's warning of danger ahead and now they are all ears when Paul spoke. Once again this exemplifies how God's people tuned into His Spirit can provide the hope and direction for those around them by living out the life that glows.
[A] Yesterday I reflected on the boldness and clear-cut way of Paul's defense of his own beliefs. Today, his boldness manifested in a different way is what challenges me -- his non-threatening and yet impacting lifestyle. He didn't have to challenge anyone in a debate but simply had to show how his God is more powerful than any system and knowledge of this world. I need to continue to develop my intimacy with God such that what I say will be so in line with what God desires.
[P] Dear Father, please put in me the same heart and lifestyle of Paul as I am in this world of sinking ship being tossed by the waves of this world. Sooner or later the people on board will realize how true Your words are and will turn to Your people to seek encouragement and strength. Please use me as one of those people and may I daily learn to submit to You so my life will be prepared for such a time. In Jesus' name. Amen
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