February 20, 2018: SOAP #3001:  Numbers 7; Psalm 23; Acts 27

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 27:9 Much time had been lost, and sailing had already become dangerous because by now it was after the Fast. So, Paul warned them, 10 “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” 11 But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.

Observation:  The centurion was not an expert on weather nor on the capabilities of the ship.  In his understanding, the owner of the ship and the pilot had the most experience, and the most to lose.  Paul was just a prisoner on his way to a trial in Rome.  Paul was neither a sailor nor a weatherman.  But Paul was walking in a close relationship with The Expert in both weather and sailing.

Application:   There are many voices in the world today offering advice.  Sports heroes act like experts on all types of things, from what we should eat to where we should spend our money.  Even people with great knowledge and understanding can never claim to have the final answer.  How blest I am to have the Holy Spirit living in me to warn me about decisions that will later prove to be foolish.  How foolish not to listen to His voice!

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, you alone are the expert in all things.  Holy Spirit, I trust you to lead me.  Today, I will be listening.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!