Lessons in the Storm: A Journey with the Apostle Paul

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

Historically the Church has been among the first responders bringing faith, provision, and healing to their communities in times of great difficulty. God has called every Christian to be salt and light in the world. Storm warriors of Jesus hold fast to this goal and stay focused on the mission of God—to proclaim Christ’s Kingdom and His coming to the world around us. In other words, as we often say to ourselves, “It is not about you!” It is the big picture that gives perspective and direction through whatever challenges may come.

The apostle Paul demonstrates this storm warrior lifestyle. His testimony through shipwrecks and arrests and hunger and prison was not just a story of personal survival or ministry success. The Gospel was preached to sinners, miracles attested to the truth, the true spirit of prophecy rang out, lives were saved and God’s mission was fully accomplished. But not because it was smooth sailing!

Let us put ourselves in Paul’s shoes in just one of his many amazing stories—his journey to Rome as a prisoner told in Acts 27. Under criminal indictment and in shackles, Paul was a passenger on a Roman freightliner headed for trial under a hostile, pagan legal system. But Paul carried the peace and authority of a free man. In that liberty he gave both comfort and strategy to those on board the ship. He did not lose sight of his goal: to preach the Gospel in Rome…

Paul had testified to the believers in Ephesus:

I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. - Acts 20:22–24

When others interpreted the prophecies as instruction to retreat, Paul knew they were preparing him for the difficulty ahead. Now in the face of the coming storm, God’s servant was ready. He was not bothered when the captain and crew ignored his warnings. He knew that his personal destiny extended well beyond imminent death at sea. He shifted into the role of intercessor to circumvent the plan of the enemy for their lives and his….

Paul demonstrated the quiet confidence of one who knows that the God who gave him his mission was more than capable of sailing them through the storm. Paul knew that it was not about him! The mission was about God receiving glory and accomplishing His desire.

Let’s pray:

Lord Jesus, in this hour for the nations we stand in the gap asking for our inheritance and Yours— a great turning of hearts, fearful, hardened, sleeping, faint, and strong, to You today in a great outpouring of Your Spirit of love and mercy. We pray for ourselves to be reignited in first-love passion and joy. We pray for our family members by name. We pray for all those suffering and impacted by Covid19 virus. Lord, turn this night of weeping into the dawning of a new horizon of light, life, and joy. Draw us, our governing and serving institutions, our city, and our nation under Your shadow and defend us against the shadows of death. Restore our soul, we pray! Amen

Join with us for our Raise the Shield! Wield the Sword! Corporate Fast this Thursday. We are confident and covering you and yours. Send your prayer requests to us at hotline@chavdaministries.org. Join us online for the Watch of the Lord, and see you ONLINE this Sunday at 10 a.m. We will continue on this journey with Apostle Paul here tomorrow!