February 21, 2017: SOAP #2637:  Numbers 8-9; Acts 28

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta.  2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.  3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand.  4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.”  5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects.

Observation:  God’s protection comes in many ways.  In the previous chapter, God did not still the storm, but saved the lives of Paul and all those aboard the vessel.  First God saved the lives of Paul and his fellow prisoners from a Roman sword (Acts 7:42) Second God saved Paul and all others from the sea. (Acts 7:24 & 44) Third, on shore, God did not protect Paul from being bitten by the snake, but protected him from the venom of the snake.

Application:   When I do not see God’s protection coming in the way I expect, I should not stop trusting.  I should not stop serving, even if it is just gathering sticks for a fire.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, I am sure Paul had no clue that your plan to have him testify for you before Caesar would include a ship-wreck, a snake bite, and a healing ministry on the island of Melita.  Find me faithful on every stop along my journey, I pray.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!