Daybreak: Acts 27:1-44

When I read today's text about the typhoon-like storm that hit the ship carrying Paul, Luke, and 274 others toward Rome, it made me think of that time of trial.

I had no control of the winds of anxiety that hit me when I least expected it.

I felt like I was being tossed about in a storm, with no idea how to remedy the situation.

And in my case, like that of Paul and his shipmates, God gave direction.

Although opening up to my friend felt like I was letting go of the wheel and allowing the storm to drive me, in fact, it was the starting point for surviving the storm.

Many others have gone through similar trials.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, more than 40 million American adults suffer from depression.

However, mental health disorders are certainly not the only storms that come in life.

They may come in the form of fear, loneliness, financial challenges, health concerns, grief, or any combination of these and more.

There are a couple important lessons we can learn from Paul's experience aboard the ship set for Rome.

First, when the ship of life seems out of control, we must follow God's leading.

In my case, that meant telling another Christian what I was going through.

It may be an entirely different instruction for you, but the important thing is that we follow through in obedience to what God reveals.

Secondly, we must be sure not to abandon our relationship with the Lord.

Paul warned the sailors who tried to escape the ship that they would not be saved unless everyone stayed aboard.

We cannot abandon the gospel, even in the worst of storms, or we have no assurance that we'll be saved in the end.

I can say from experience that trials are not easy, but God is the great deliverer.

Let me encourage you with the words of Paul, be of good cheer.

We will overcome if we keep looking to the Lord and following what he tells us to do.