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.”