SOAP Devotional Acts 27:14-17a – What does the Bible say about storms in our lives? – Free online Bible study – Commentary in easy English – Day 692
Before very long, a wind of hurricane force, called the Northeaster, swept down from the island. The ship was caught by the storm and could not head into the wind; so we gave way to it and were driven along. As we passed to the lee of a small island called Cauda, we were hardly able to make the lifeboat secure, so the men hoisted it aboard. Then they passed ropes under the ship itself to hold it together. (Acts 27:14-17a)
When I went through my divorce, I was caught in a swirling tunnel of darkness. Christian friends and my ex’s family, whom I loved much, abandoned me. Everyone except my family told me God would punish and desert me because of my intentional sin. I recommend all efforts to save a marriage, but I strongly believe God doesn’t want us to suffer abuse.
I feared God like churchgoing people said I should. I avoided him and battled the downpour alone, without God’s power to fight my negative emotions. I gave way and let the squalls batter me. I hoisted my lifeboat, Jesus, into a dry stack facility where I hoped he couldn’t find me.
I learned one can suffer great loss while sailing through a storm without Jesus. Because of God’s grace, I’m alive.
Father, I praise You for Your grace, love, and power that give me strength to fight life’s Northeasters. Protect my family and me and bind us closer to You. As for my family and me, we will serve the Lord. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
You did the right thing even though it caused you great harm and anguish. In the end it turned out just as it should have. I firmly believe that God does not want us to be unhappy and suffer. Jody, even though we all lose sight of God at times, He does lose sight of us. He is with us if we forget to ask Him for help, if we forget to pray and include Him in every part of our life. God is constant and loving and He gets us through the most difficult storms in our life. The Bible verse you chose, Isaiah 41:10, is so comforting. How can we not feel God’s love when we read, So do not fear for I am with you. I will strengthen you and help you and uphold you. Such beautiful and comforting words. God is not to be feared. We are His children and He loves us and we give Him the glory.
Praying for you and your family. I am praying that we are able to navigate our problems with God’s help and that brings us closer to Him. I am also praying for Sam and his health. Love you, Sister!
I want everyone to know that God wants us to respect him, not fear him. “Do not be afraid,” is written 365 times in the Bible, one for every day of the year. God loves us. If I would’ve listened to him instead of people who ultimately abandoned me, I would have led a much happier life during the period. But God has more than made it up to me. As you said, “Glory to God.” Thanks for your prayers. I’m praying for you to relax and heal. Blessings, Jody
He does not lose sight of us.
Typo
I totally agree.