Paul, having been falsely accused was transported along with other prisoners and crew members, on a ship headed to Rome. Along the way, they encountered a severe storm and the ship was battered by waves and winds. Things didn’t look good and every one on board feared for their lives.
During the chaos, an Angel of the Lord appeared to Paul and assured him that everyone on the ship would be saved. Paul told everyone what the angel said to him.
As the storm continued, they came to an island called Malta. It was here that the ship struck a reef and began to fall apart. Everyone on board swam or floated on pieces of the broken ship and made it to shore just as the angel had promised. It was a miracle that all 276 people on the ship survived~Acts 27.
God understands our fear. We may feel anxious and afraid in our storms, but if we look to God, He will strengthen and encourage us. The storm didn’t stop but God made a way out. He’s a Way Maker! When we trust in Him, like Paul, our fear turns to faith.
The story of Paul and the shipwreck is a great illustration of how God uses broken pieces to fulfill His purpose. Just as He used the shattered pieces of the ship to bring Paul and the crew members to safety, He can use the broken pieces of our lives to bring about His greater plan. It’s in our brokenness that God oftentimes does His most remarkable work.
