Friday, June 12, 2015

One final nighttime episode in the book of Acts reminds me of what the late Dr. Edman said in a Wheaton College chapel service: “Never doubt in the night what God told you in the day.” In the light of our recent study I would rephrase it: “Never doubt in the day what God told you in the night.” In Acts 27:10 Paul warned the skipper of the ship in which they traveled to Rome: “I don’t think we should attempt this trip this late in the season.” The skipper ignored the warning. Later, when caught in a severe storm, all on board feared they’d be drowned. They threw everything overboard except a little food. After reminding them of his warning Paul encouraged them to have courage. He said in Acts 27:21-25, “Not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. Last night (there it is again, Last night) an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.” Paul didn’t doubt in the day what God told him that night. Because of his faith he was able to take control of all on board and prepare them for how to survive the shipwreck. Not one person was lost! I’m confident some were saved not only from the storm, but also for eternity. Never doubt in the day what God tells you at night. To learn more on this theme request my book, Light in the Night for Living in the Day, by going to my website, gettinggodsmessage.org, and click on the contact link to get the information to email or write me.