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Are You Enduring a Test or Temptation?

James 1:2-4 and 1:12

James 1:2-4, 12 (NIV)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials (πειρασμοῖς [peirasmois]) of many kinds, because you know that the testing (δοκίμιον [dokimion]) of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial (πειρασμόν [peirasmon]), because, having been approved (δόκιμος [dokimos]), that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

The Greek word for trials (πειρασμοῖς [peirasmois]) can refer to difficulties or adversities intended to refine and prove faith or “baiting” meant to lure us into sin and failure.

The Greek word for testing is δοκίμιον (dokimion), meaning “proving” or “genuineness,” especially regarding faith being tested and shown authentic. Trials (πειρασμοῖς [peirasmois]) act as a neutral arbiter, revealing the intent of the heart and the actions of the individual. Trials can either refine us, proving our worthiness and producing a faith that is complete and mature, or expose a heart sown to the flesh, which results in sin.

If we pass the test, God entrusts us with greater responsibility.

After Abraham’s faith was proven, God blessed him with greater responsibility, making him the father of many nations:
“I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky.” (Genesis 22:17).
Jesus also teaches this principle:
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Luke 16:10).
And:
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:21, 23).

Temptations—trials (πειρασμοῖς [peirasmois]) that lure us into sin—come from the enemy (see the next section of James). These are meant to undermine our faith and render us ineffective or unfruitful in God’s kingdom. But praise be to God! Through His Holy Spirit, God can transform our trial (πειρασμός [peirasmos]) into a test (δοκίμος [dokimos]) that—after examination—proves our faith and character to be genuine and pure.

Conclusion

  1. Trials test our faith and reveal our hearts.
  2. The testing of our faith produces perseverance.
  3. Perseverance—when the test is complete—produces maturity.
  4. Maturity leaves us compete, so we have all we need. 
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Seek God’s Wisdom: A Life of Stability

James 1:5-11

If any of you lacks wisdom (σοφίας [sophias]), let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.

The Proverbs of Solomon: To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity, to give prudence to the simple, and knowledge and discretion. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.

Believe and do not doubt. The one who asks in doubt is (δί [di] — “two” or “double“) ψυχή (psyche) (“soul,” “mind,” or “life“). Together, δίψυχος literally means “two-souled.”

This man, though he asks God for wisdom and reads the wisdom of Proverbs, does not believe what he receives. His faith lies elsewhere. If such a man will not receive the wisdom of God plainly given in God’s Word, neither will he receive anything more from God. The soul of such a man is divided between the things of the flesh and the things of the Spirit. He is unstable in all he does, never coming to agreement on direction, dealings, or what is right.

Jesus warns, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

Both rich and poor are brought low, (ταπεινώσει [tapeinōsei]) and will pass away like a wildflower. But the brother of low degree (ταπεινὸς [tapeinos])—who seems to have little but whose faith in the Lord is great—ought to rejoice in the glory that he is exalted (ὕψει [hypsei]). For life’s light and momentary troubles achieve for us an eternal glory that far outweighs anything we suffer in the flesh (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Above all else, ask for and gain wisdom. From Proverbs:

  • The wise listen, learn, and receive discernment and guidance. (1:5)
  • The wise receive a garland to grace their heads. (1:9)
  • God pours out His heart to those who fear Him. (1:23)
  • God shares His thoughts with the wise who revere Him. (1:23)
  • Whoever listens to God will live in safety. (1:33)
  • Whoever reads and believes God’s Word will be at ease and live without fear of harm. (1:33)
  • If you accept God’s Word as truth and store His commands in your heart, you may call out for insight and receive instruction. (2:1–3)
  • Those who are wise in God’s Word will cry aloud for understanding. They will look for it as they would for silver. They will search for it as for hidden treasure. They will respect the Lord God and His Word and receive understanding in all things. (2:5)
  • The Lord gives wisdom to the humble who submit to Him. (2:6)
  • From the Lord’s mouth come knowledge and understanding. If you lack direction and discernment, ask the Lord. (2:6)
  • Victory is in store for those who have the righteousness of Jesus in them. (2:7)

 

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Two Births

James 1:13-18

When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” God cannot—and thus will not—be tempted by evil. God does he tempt anyone. 

Birth of Death 

  • Each person is dragged away when by their evil desire they take the δέλεαρ bait.
  • In Greek literature, δελεάζω is often used in contexts related to hunting or fishing, describing how bait is used to lure prey. ἕλκω is often paired with δελεάζω, meaning “to drag” or “to draw forcibly.” ἐπιθυμία (epithymia) means desires or lusts, which are the internal “lure” that matches the external bait.
  • Then, desire conceives.
  • In due time, unless aborted, desire’s conception gives birth to sin.
  • Sin, if allowed to live, when full-grown, gives birth to death.

Example: Eve saw the forbidden fruit (bait). In her heart she desired it. The bait aligned with a desire in her heart and Eve conceived. Despite God’s command, Eve took the bait and acted on the desire in her heart. Her sin “conceived” death, leading to spiritual separation from God and bringing death into the world.

The name Eve in Hebrew is חַוָּה (Chavvah), derived from the root חָיָה (chayah), meaning “to live” or “to give life.” Her name is significant because she would become “the mother of all the living.” Eve means “life” or “living,” and yet she gave birth to death. In what ways are we, who are created to give life and nurture all living things God places under our dominion, giving birth to death today? 

God Gives Us Holy Birth

  • Through His word of truth, God’s seed σπέρμα (sperma) finds a good heart.
  • God’s word seed, when planted in a good heart, takes root. Jesus says:
  • “The kingdom of God is like a man who scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.” Mark 4:26-29
  • In this way, we are a kind of spiritual firstfruits of all God created. 

Eve, as the “mother of all the living,” represents the flesh, but Jesus, as the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20), gives us Jesus’ Spirit and brings eternal life. On the Feast of Firstfruits, Jesus rose, fulfilling the promise of new life through resurrection. At Pentecost, God poured out His Spirit on those who believed in Jesus. Thus, we who are believers became the firstfruits of God’s spiritual harvest, fulfilling the Feast of Weeks. In this way, God redeemed creation God and restored the broken relationship between man and God.

Monday nights at 7, Christ’s Church at Moore Square hosts a “Jesus Study” at the picnic tables in Moore Square or at Subway, 234 Fayetteville St. Dates: December through February—Subway. March through November—picnic tables in the park.

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Equipped for the Battle: Defeating the Devils Schemes

Standing Firm in Your Fight Against the Rulers, Authorities, and Dark World Powers

Keywords in Titles, Descriptions, and Metadata

Salvo: Precision-guided missile
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world; they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” 2 Corinthians 10:4
In the name of Jesus, I declare that every keyword embedded within my books’ metadata will pierce through the darkness and rise to prominence in search algorithms. My books’ titles, descriptions, and metadata show clarity, bypassing all manipulation and obfuscation. Above all, my books’ titles, descriptions, and metadata reign supreme on Amazon and other platforms.

Historical and Recent Sales Data, Conversion Rates

Salvo: Aerial bombardment
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” Colossians 2:15
By the authority of Christ, I declare that every obstacle tied to my books’ sales performance is obliterated. This aerial bombardment of God’s Word shatters schemes designed to prevent my books from being seen, found, and sold. Every algorithm bows to the authority of Christ, His WORD, and truth, ensuring my books reach their intended audience.

Quantity, Ratings, and Recency of Reviews

Salvo: Grenade explosions
“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.” Isaiah 54:17
By the authority of Christ, I declare that every false and vindictive review and negative rating planted by the enemy and featured above positive reviews is obliterated. Every attempt to suppress or diminish my books through negative reviews and ratings is destroyed by the word of God: “No weapon forged against you will prevail.” Amen

 

 

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The Feast of Trumpets, Jesus’ Return, and the Day and Hour

Elections Matter—Jesus' Return Matters More

Trumpets (Leviticus 23:24) – The first of the fall feasts. “Shall have you a sabbath rest, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, a convocation (assembly) holy.”

1 Thessalonians 4:16 “Because himself the Lord with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel and with [the] trumpet of God, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first.” (1 Thessalonians 4:17 “We remaining together with them (dead in Christ) will be caught away in [the] clouds for [the] meeting of the Lord in the air and so always with the Lord we will be.”

“will be caught away” GreeK: harpazó: to seize suddenly and decisively, catch up, snatch away properly by force—like someone seizing bounty (spoil, a prize); to take by an open display of force (i.e. not covertly or secretly).

1 Corinthians 15:52 “At the last trumpet, the trumpet will sound, for, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.”

The Feast of Trumpets, Jesus Return, and the Day and HourThe Feast of Trumpets, also known as Rosh Hashanah, marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days and the civil new year. It is observed on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, based on the command in Leviticus 23:24, where God instructs the Israelites to observe a sacred assembly with trumpet blasts. The holiday combines themes of renewal, repentance, and the anticipation of God’s judgment, setting the stage for the Ten Days of Repentance leading to Yom Kippur.

Ancient Observances of Trumpets

In ancient Israel, the “trumpets” referred to the “shofar,” a ram’s horn, which was blown throughout the day to announce the sacred holiday. This blast symbolized both a call to repentance and an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. Trumpets in Israelite tradition also had significance for announcing royal proclamations, assembly of the people, or impending danger, all reflected in Rosh Hashanah observances.

The day they included special sacrifices at the Temple in Jerusalem. The priests offered burnt offerings, grain, and drink offerings, as specified in Numbers 29:1–6. While there was a festive atmosphere, the focus on repentance and preparation for divine judgment gave the day a serious tone. Ritual purification, prayer, and time in reflection likely accompanied the trumpet blasts and offerings.

Rosh Hashanah continues as a sacred day of rest, marked by shofar blasts, synagogue services, and special prayers.

Traditional and Modern Observances of Trumpets

Shofar Blasts: Central to the observance is the blowing of the shofar. Traditionally, the shofar is sounded 100 times during the service, with varying patterns of blasts, each representing different calls to introspection and action.

Prayer Services: Unique prayers, such as the “Amidah” and “Avinu Malkeinu” (“Our Father, Our King”), focus on themes of repentance, divine kingship, and the hope for a peaceful and prosperous new year. The “Machzor,” a special prayer book for the High Holy Days, contains these prayers and readings, guiding worshipers through the day.

Tashlich Ceremony: On the afternoon of Rosh Hashanah, many Jews participate in “Tashlich,” a symbolic act of “casting off” sins by throwing pieces of bread or pebbles into a body of water. This act represents the verse from Micah 7:19, “You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea,” reinforcing the theme of repentance.

Festive Meals: Rosh Hashanah meals include symbolic foods such as apples dipped in honey to represent the hope for a sweet year, and pomegranates, symbolizing an abundance of blessings and good deeds. Round challah bread, symbolizing the cycle of the year, is also eaten.

Ten Days of Repentance: Rosh Hashanah initiates the Ten Days of Repentance, a period of introspection and reconciliation, ending with Yom Kippur. Observers focus on personal and communal repentance, repairing relationships, and returning to God!

Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) Dates:

  1. 2024: October 2-4
  2. 2025: September 22-24
  3. 2026: September 11-13
  4. 2027: October 1-3
  5. 2028: September 20-22
  6. 2029: September 9-11
  7. 2030: September 28-30
  8. 2031: September 18-20
  9. 2032: September 5-7
  10. 2033: September 24-26

In Parables Jesus Tells us to Watch!

In the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) Five wise virgins take extra oil for their lamps, while five foolish ones do not. When the bridegroom arrives suddenly, the wise virgins are prepared to meet him, but the foolish ones are not. Jesus concludes: “Therefore keep watch because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:13)

In the Parable of the Watchful Servants (Luke 12:35-40) Jesus tells his listeners to be like servants ready for their master’s return from a wedding banquet, keeping their lamps burning and staying alert. He ends with: “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (Luke 12:40)

In the Parable of the Thief in the Night (Matthew 24:43-44) Jesus compares his return to a thief in the night, where the owner of the house would have kept watch if he knew the time of the thief’s arrival. He warns: “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (Matthew 24:44)

In the Parable of the Doorkeeper (Mark 13:33-37) Jesus compares his followers to a doorkeeper left in charge by the master and commands them to watch. He ends with: “What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’” (Mark 13:37)

A Few Key Points in Interpretation:

Day and Hour as Synonyms for Precise Timing: In biblical Greek, “day” (ἡμέρα) and “hour” (ὥρα) can sometimes function as a literary pair to convey the concept of timing rather than suggesting two distinct time units. Thus, “day and hour” might best be understood as emphasizing the total unpredictability of the exact time of Jesus’ return or general proximity but without a definitive time of day or day of the week.

Cultural Expectation of a Wedding Arrival:  Jewish weddings often include a waiting period for the bridegroom’s arrival, and it is normal for this to happen later than expected. The delay in the bridegroom’s arrival in the parable leads to the foolish virgins running out of oil, showing that, although they anticipated his arrival, they didn’t know the precise moment. The five wise virgins anticipated a lengthier delay and were rewarded for their preparation. Jesus seems to suggest that we should both prepare for his immediate arrival within a general time frame but ensure we do not lose heart (oil) if His appearance seems to take longer than expected.

Readiness Over Knowledge of Specific Time: Jesus’ emphasis in the parables and in Matthew 24:36 is on the need for continual preparation, precisely because no one can predict his coming. (Fall of 2024, Fall of 2025, Fall of 2026 ….) The virgins’ waiting with lamps shows their attempt to be ready, but the distinction is made between those who were fully prepared and those who were not.

Live With Expectation

John the Baptist expected the Messiah to come during his lifetime. He was born for that purpose.

In Luke 2:25-35, we read of Simeon, a ”righteous and devout man,” who was eagerly awaiting the “consolation of Israel.” The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.

Based on the prophecy in Daniel 9 about seventy “weeks” or sets of years, many in Israel during Jesus’ time would have had a general expectation of the Messiah’s arrival. This prophecy pointed to a specific period after the decree to rebuild Jerusalem, which scholars and religious leaders interpreted as roughly 483 years, leading to the time around Jesus’ life and ministry. While they did not know the exact day or hour, many Jews would have been looking for signs of the Messiah, expecting Him to appear soon as this timeline approached fulfillment. This anticipation created a heightened sense of expectancy and hope, fueling interest in potential messianic figures during the years of Roman occupation.

Could Jesus come at any time? Yes. But it is instructive for us to consider Jesus’ words regarding his return.

“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that the kingdom of God is near, right at the door.” (Matthew 24:32-35; Mark 13:28-31; Luke 21:29-33)

Don’t be like the five virgins. Do not “fall” asleep. Fall forward in anticipation of our Lord’s return.

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The Wealth of Wisdom

Proverbs 1-4

Worried? Anxious? Struggling with depression? In broken relationships—or several? Overworked? Underpaid? Can’t pay your bills? Feeling lost and stuck with no place to turn?

No worries. God has this!

All you need for peace, provision, health, and wholeness in life is the Holy Spirit of Jesus living in you, revealing the treasures found in God’s Word. Jesus didn’t worry. He didn’t stress about tomorrow—and He doesn’t want you to worry, either.

Jesus is saying to you today: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27). I tell you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (John 16:33). Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:28-30).”

God’s Wisdom in Jesus provides a rich and fruitful life. Respect for the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, instruction, understanding, and insight, acquiring a disciplined and prudent life—a life that is just and fair, with knowledge and discretion. Not sure which job to take, path to walk, how to make ends meet? With the Holy Spirit’s guidance, you can tap into God’s wisdom and receive clarity, direction, and confidence in every aspect of your life. Jesus says, “Ask. Seek. Knock. My Father in heaven desires to give good things to those who ask Him! (Matthew 7:11)”

If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety and despair, these verses offer reassurance and guidance, revealing the hope and wisdom found in God’s Word. Open your Bible. Read these verses slowly. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you which verse is for you today, for your problems right now. He WILL speak if you ask. And when you get a word from the Lord, stand on it. Trust that God will honor His word and do for you what He has said.

1. Addressing Anxiety and Fear

  • Promises of Safety: Proverbs 1:33 states, “Whoever listens to the words of the Lord will live in safety.” This addresses the fear many feel about their circumstances.
  • Restful Sleep: Proverbs 3:24 assures that “when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet,” which directly counters the sleeplessness caused by anxiety.

2. Providing Hope and Purpose

  • Wisdom as Life: Proverbs 4:22 claims, “Wisdom is life to those who find her and health to a man’s body.” This reinforces the idea that wisdom provides not just guidance but also vitality and health—both physical and mental.
  • Prolonged Life and Prosperity: Proverbs 3:1-2 suggests that keeping God’s commands brings prosperity and prolongs life, which can instill hope for a better future.

3. Encouraging Positive Change

  • Pathways of Righteousness: Proverbs 4:26-27 encourages making level paths for your feet, emphasizing the importance of following God’s guidance for a fruitful life.
  • Embracing Wisdom: Proverbs 3:13-14 states, “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom,” highlighting the reward of seeking wisdom and understanding.

4. Overcoming Isolation and Disconnection

  • Community and Support: Proverbs 3:33-35 mentions that “the Lord blesses the home of the righteous,” which implies that wisdom can lead to strengthened relationships and a supportive community.

5. Encouragement Against Despair

  • Guarding the Heart: Proverbs 4:23 advises to “guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” This serves as a reminder to seek emotional and spiritual protection through God’s wisdom.

All the Ways God’s Wisdom Is Our Source for Life and Living

Blessings

  • “Do not forget God’s teachings. Keep his commands in your heart. They will prolong your life for many years and bring you prosperity.” Proverbs 3:1-2
  • “With God’s Wisdom you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and men.” Proverbs 3:4
  • “God’s Wisdom will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” Proverbs 3:8
  • “God’s Wisdom fills your bank accounts to overflowing, and provides all you need for a rich life.” Proverbs 3:10
  • “Wisdom is a tree of life to those who rest on her branches.” Proverbs 3:18
  • “Wisdom is life to those who find her and health to a man’s body.” Proverbs 4:22
  • “Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the left or right. Then you will walk in the good way.” Proverbs 4:26-27

Promises

  • “Whoever listens to the words of the Lord will live in safety. They will be at ease and without fear of harm.” Proverbs 1:33
  • “Wisdom holds victory in store for the upright. Wisdom is a shield to those whose walk is blameless. Wisdom guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones.” Proverbs 2:7-8
  • “With Wisdom you will understand what is right, just, and fair. You will find every good path. Wisdom will enter your heart. Knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you. Understanding will guard you.” Proverbs 2:9-11
  • “In all your ways acknowledge God, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:6
  • “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” Proverbs 3:24
  • “Have no fear of disaster or the ruin that overtakes others, for the Lord is your confidence. He will keep your foot from being snared.” Proverbs 3:25-26
  • “The Lord blesses the home of the righteous. The wise inherit honor.” Proverbs 3:33-35

Warnings

  • “Fear of the Lord. Turn when He rebukes, and He will pour out His heart to you. He will make His thoughts known to you.” Proverbs 1:29-30
  • “Do not be wise in your own eyes. Instead, fear the Lord and shun evil.” Proverbs 3:7
  • “The Lord disciplines those He loves, as a father the son he delights in.” Proverbs 3:12
  • “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23

Wisdom and Instruction

  • “Attain wisdom and instruction, understanding and insight. Acquire a disciplined and prudent life. Do what is right, just, and fair.” Proverbs 1:2-4
  • “The naïve gain knowledge and discretion, and increase in learning. Listen, learn, and gain discernment and guidance for understanding proverbs and parables, for sayings and riddles of the wise.” Proverbs 1:5-6
  • “If you accept His words and store up His commands in your heart; if you turn your ear to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding…then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” Proverbs 2:1-5
  • “The Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6
  • “Let love and faithfulness never leave you. Bind them around your neck as a necklace. Write them on the tablets of your heart.” Proverbs 3:3
  • “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. For wisdom is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.” Proverbs 3:13-14
  • “Preserve sound judgment and discernment. Do not let them out of your sight. They will be life to you and an ornament of grace around your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble.” Proverbs 3:21-23
  • “Wisdom is supreme; though it costs you everything, get wisdom and understanding. Esteem Wisdom, and it will exalt you. Embrace Wisdom, and it will honor you.” Proverbs 4:7-8
  • “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter until the full light of day.” Proverbs 4:18

Life Guidance

  • “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all the works of your hands.” Proverbs 3:9
  • “Let your eyes look straight ahead and your gaze directly before you.” Proverbs 4:25

Get into Jesus. Get into God’s Word. Get Jesus in you. Get God’s Word in you. Before long, you will see evidence that His Word is working to guide you out of the chaos and stress of life.

Feel free to steal these sermon notes.

Still not convinced God want you well, to prosper, to enjoy the abundant life?

Consider this: God sent Jesus to show how much God loves you. Revelation 19:13 says, “Jesus name is the Word of God.” In John 1:1 we read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This is Jesus, the Word. John 1:14 goes onto say, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. The Son, who came from the Father, is full of GRACE (God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense) and truth. We proclaim the Word of life (1 John 1:1).” Jesus is not too good to be true. He’s simply true to you if you will turn to Him.

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Paul’s Final Voyage: A Ship, A Storm, A Snake

Navigating Life’s Storms —Feel free to make this one your own, steal it outright, or share with those needing a faith boost through life's tempests.

1. Seek Guidance from God: Paul relied on God’s wisdom and direction. By seeking divine guidance rather than worldly advice, we can navigate life’s storms with discernment and clarity.

  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. He shall direct your paths.”
  • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously.”
  • Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.”

2. God’s Protection in Peril: Even in life-threatening situations, God assured Paul through an angel that everyone on board would survive. This underscores God’s protection and  faithfulness when we are in His will. We may endure trials for a while, but God delivers His own.

  • Psalm 91:11-12: “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.”
  • Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.”
  • 2 Corinthians 1:10: “[God] delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us.”

3. Trust Over Despair: Paul’s unwavering faith brought him peace during turmoil, enabling him to encourage others.

  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything. And the peace of God.will guard your hearts.”
  • Psalm 27:13-14: “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord.”
  • Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

4. Obedience and Patience: Paul and his companions faced danger due to decisions made in the “flesh,” not in the “Spirit.” They faced days of danger and delay when if they had trusted in God’s timing they would have suffered no harm and spared the ship, cargo, and crew. By leaning on God, rather than our understanding, we can avoid unnecessary struggles and remain safe in His plan.

  • Psalm 37:7: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.”
  • Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”
  • Lamentations 3:25-26: “The Lord is good to those who wait for him.It is good.to wait quietly.”

5. Encouragement in Adversity: Paul’s confidence in God eventually won over the crew and those in authority over Paul. Our quiet confidence in God’s goodness is often the best sermon we can preach. Paul knew he would be saved. Can we say the same?

  • Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.”
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.”
  • Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed.”

6. Humility and Dependence: The storm stripped the crew and passengers of their sense of control, reminding them that the God who made the wind, sea, and land, is greater than what we can plan and do.  In our weakness, we can find strength through our dependence on Him.

  • John 15:5: “I am the vine; you are the branches. apart from me, you can do nothing.”
  • Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
  • 1 Peter 5:6-7: “Humble yourselves. casting all your anxieties on Him.”

7. God’s Provision Amid Struggle: God provided for Paul’s needs and all those aboard. They survived, were welcomed into homes, and found rest from their voyage. Just as God protected Paul and the ship’s crew, this story assures believers that God is aware of our needs and will provide, even in unlikely ways (e.g., through the intervention of the centurion on Paul’s behalf). The fact that Paul was the most precious cargo aboard reminds us to assemble with believers who stand in agreement with us on matters of faith.

  • Philippians 4:19: “And my God will supply every need of yours.”
  • Matthew 6:31-33: “But seek first the kingdom of God. and all these things will be added to you.”
  • Psalm 37:25: “I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken.”

8. Divine Purpose in Difficult Times: The storm did not prevent God’s plan of delivering Paul to Rome. God had assured Paul he would reach Rome and Paul stood on this word from God. His journey illustrates how God can work through difficult situations to fulfill His purpose, even when others think it impossible. In Paul’s case, he testified and ministered to those on Malta.

  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”
  • Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you. plans to prosper you.”
  • Genesis 50:20: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good.”

9. God’s Strength Through Weakness: Paul’s experience shows how God is strong when we are weak. Paul only needed to trust God and believe His word. In doing so, all 276 souls were saved.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
  • Isaiah 40:29-31: “He gives strength to the weary. those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”
  • Psalm 73:26: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart.”

10. Overcoming Adversity Through Faith in Jesus: Paul’s encounter with the viper offers powerful symbolism for believers facing adversity. After being bitten (attacked by Satan), Paul didn’t complain, panic, or blame anyone for his situation. He could have blamed the owner and captain, the Centurion, those who voted to proceed with the journey, and the weather (cold and rain).

Instead, he shook the snake into the fire and suffered no harm, showing his reliance on God and resilience despite life-threatening challenges. The snake ended up in the fire, reminding us of Satan’s final destiny. This scene reminds believers to “shake off” the trials and obstacles Satan may use to harm them. Despite the venom’s intent to harm him, Paul brought healing to others through the Holy Spirit’s power. Paul’s actions demonstrated that if we keep our faith in Jesus and refuse to fear the attacks of the enemy, we can be victorious and a blessing to others.

  • James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
  • 1 Peter 5:8-9: “Your enemy the devil prowls around. Resist him, standing firm in the faith.”
  • Romans 16:20: “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.”