Life isn’t always calm seas and smooth sailing. At some point, each of us will face storms — moments of pain, uncertainty, or hardship that shake us. But the good news is, we don’t have to go through these times alone or without hope.
In Acts 27, we find the Apostle Paul on a journey to Rome, caught in the middle of a dangerous storm at sea. His experience offers us powerful lessons on how to respond when trouble comes our way.
Let’s look at three key ways we can face life’s storms with faith and courage.
1. Spend Time With God
When trouble strikes, it can be tempting to pull away from God. But Paul did the opposite. In the darkness of the storm, he pressed in.
- Acts 27:23 tells us that Paul spent time with God, and an angel came to assure him of God’s promises. This time with the Lord gave Paul the strength to stand up and encourage others — even when all seemed lost.
Here’s the heart of it:
Champions aren’t made in the ring; they’re revealed there.
The quiet, consistent time you spend with God — in prayer, reading Scripture, worship — prepares you to stand strong when the storm hits.
So don’t wait for trouble to come to start building your spiritual life. Make time each day to seek God, to open His Word, and to pour out your heart in prayer. As Pastor Mike often says, “If there’s no passion for Christ in your heart, get on your knees and ask God to give it to you.”
2. Lift Up Others, Even When You’re Hurting
It’s easy to focus on ourselves when we’re struggling. But look at Paul’s example. In the midst of a terrifying storm, he stood up and encouraged everyone on board.
- Acts 27:22 – “I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you…”
Paul grounded his confidence in more than just wishful thinking. He had spent time with God and received a promise. That’s why he could lift up others, pointing them back to hope.
In our own storms, God calls us to keep serving and encouraging others. Galatians 6:2 tells us,
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
That might look like checking in on a friend, praying with someone who’s hurting, or simply being present. Remember: you might be the voice of hope someone else desperately needs.
3. Trust God’s Promises and Keep Going
God promised Paul that everyone on the ship would survive, though the ship itself would be lost. Paul believed this promise fully.
- Acts 27:25 – “Take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.”
Faith means trusting God’s promises — even when you can’t see how they’ll work out. God fulfills some of His promises here on earth, while others we won’t see until heaven. But we can be certain: God always keeps His Word.
When you’re lonely, remember God is your companion.
When you’re worried, trust Him to be your confidence.
When you’re tempted, lean on Him as your counselor.
And when you’re discouraged, let Him be your comforter.
Hebrews 10:36 reminds us,
“For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”
Endure. Obey. Trust. And keep moving forward — knowing God is with you through every storm.
In Closing: There Is Hope Worth Having
Whatever storm you’re facing right now — sickness, sorrow, struggles at home or work — remember God is still in control. Nothing can stop His plan for your life or His gospel from reaching the ends of the earth.
Spend time with Him. Encourage those around you. Stand firm on His promises. And above all, remember the greatest promise of all:
“Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
If you need prayer or want to learn more about following Jesus, we’d love to talk with you. Visit Us!