Acts 27:39-44
The soldiers wanted to kill the prisoners to make sure they didn’t swim ashore and escape. But the commanding officer wanted to spare Paul, so he didn’t let them carry out their plan. Then he ordered all who could swim to jump overboard first and make for land. The others held on to planks or debris from the broken ship. So, everyone escaped safely to shore. (Acts 27:42–44)
All those going through a storm need to be engaged in the process. No one is promised a magical escape clause. Passivity is faith’s enemy. It isn’t an acceptable option to fold our arms and wait for the storm to pass.
In times of difficulty or adversity, it is crucial for individuals to actively participate and face the challenges head-on. There is no guarantee or assurance of a miraculous solution or an instant escape from the storm that one may be facing. Simply remaining passive and idle is detrimental to the strength of one’s faith and hinders any potential for growth or resolution.
To effectively navigate through the storm, it is essential to be engaged and actively involved in the process. This engagement requires acknowledging the presence of the storm, understanding its nature, and formulating a strategic plan to overcome it. It involves taking proactive steps, making conscious decisions, and continuously adapting to the circumstances.
While it may be tempting to adopt a passive stance and believe that the storm will eventually pass on its own, this attitude is counterproductive. Merely folding our arms and waiting for the storm to subside displays a lack of initiative and a passive reliance on external factors. It is an acceptance of defeat and a failure to take responsibility for our own well-being and progress.
Instead, actively engaging with the storm demonstrates resilience, determination, and faith in oneself. It signifies an unwavering commitment to facing hardships head-on, irrespective of the outcome. By taking an active role, individuals are empowering themselves to find solutions, learn valuable lessons, and ultimately emerge from the storm stronger and more resilient.
Engagement in the process not only bolsters personal growth but also allows individuals to seek support from their communities, friends, family, or professionals. It encourages open communication and cooperation, as well as the sharing of experiences and perspectives. Engaging with others can provide valuable insights, support, and encouragement, further aiding in tackling the storm’s challenges.
It may mean some hard work. It may require humbling yourself before God and others. It might mean a season of counseling where a trained, compassionate individual helps you reorder your life. You may be required to admit several wrong actions and seek reconciliation as you make restitution. Whatever the case, you’ll need to be involved. Reality mandates that type of mature response. It’s part of throwing the anchor of reality and trusting God to bring you to shore.
The best plan for surviving a storm is preparation. No seasoned fishermen or responsible ship captain sets across the open sea without a thorough knowledge of the vessel’s equipment and without making sure all is in proper working order. They rarely leave without having first spent sufficient time going over the navigation charts—studying the weather patterns and acquainting themselves with dangerous passages.
And they never leave port without anchors. That’s for certain. No one wants to be shipwrecked. But the reality is, it happens, not only on the open sea, but also in life.
In times of calm and tranquility, it is essential to actively engage in spiritual practices and deepen our connection with God. This proactive approach serves as a foundation for our resilience and strength when storms arise in our lives.
One powerful way to prepare ourselves is by spending time in God’s Word. The Bible is a source of wisdom, guidance, and comfort. By studying its teachings, we gain valuable insights that can help us navigate through challenging times. The stories of perseverance, faith, and triumph found within its pages serve as a wellspring of inspiration and encouragement. Engaging with Scripture allows us to develop a deeper understanding of God’s character and His promises, providing us with the spiritual resources we need to face storms head-on.
In addition to studying God’s Word, it is vital to reflect upon the charts and maps He has provided for our life’s journey. These metaphorical resources can be understood as spiritual principles and guidelines that offer direction and clarity in times of uncertainty. They help us navigate through life by providing a framework for decision-making and personal growth. By familiarizing ourselves with these guiding principles during times of calm, we equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge and understanding to make wise choices when faced with storms.
Furthermore, deepening our walk with God through prayer and personal worship strengthens our relationship with Him. Prayer is a powerful tool that allows us to communicate with God, to seek His guidance, and to find comfort and solace in His presence. In times of calm, when the storms seem distant, it is an opportune moment to cultivate a habit of regular prayer and to draw closer to God in intimate conversation.
Personal worship is another essential aspect of deepening our connection with God. By setting aside time to praise and adore Him, we acknowledge His sovereignty and express our gratitude. Engaging in worship helps us cultivate an attitude of trust, surrender, and reverence towards God. It allows us to strengthen our faith, deepen our love for Him, and align our hearts with His purposes. Then, when the inevitable winds of adversity begin to blow—and they most certainly will blow—you’ll be ready to respond in faith, rather than fear. Don’t wait. Check those anchors while it’s smooth sailing. You’ll be glad you did.
Chuck Swindoll