+DEV+ God's Plans Work Through The Hands Of Man

Date: July 25, 2013 1:15 AM
Topic: +DEV+  God's Plans Work Through The Hands Of Man

God's Plans Work Through The Hands Of Man

"But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed." (Acts 27:22)

Scripture Focus: Acts 27:13-44

The Apostle Paul is being shipped to Rome to be tried as a Roman citizen for his radical ministry and message concerning Jesus Christ. On the way, a great tempest named "Euroclydon" dashes the ship against the rocks and threatens the lives of all on board.

As the stress level rises and everyone fears for his life, an angel gives Paul the good news: "There will be no loss of life," and the not-so-good news: "The ship will be lost."

If you read this story carefully, you will discover that God's gracious promise to save the crew is not worked out in a vacuum. Neither the Apostle Paul nor the sailors simply stop their rescue efforts and say, "Well, the Lord has this one under control. Let's just watch and see how He carries us to safety."

Not at all! The sailors make the ship lighter by throwing cargo overboard and ultimately are saved by "staying in the boat" (vs. 31). Fatalism says, "It doesn't matter what I do." God's sovereignty says, "God's plans are often worked out through the hands of man!"

Insight: God ordains the end as well as the means to that end.




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