Where’s your focus during life’s storms? Despite being a prisoner, Paul's faith and focus on God led to his survival and the safety of others. In this sermon on Acts 27:1 - 28:10, Mister Brown highlights the need to trust in God through both small and large trials, encouraging the congregation to keep their focus on Jesus.

[0:00] Descriptive vs. prescriptive passages

[5:50] Invitation to trust Christ

[12:47] The storm

[30:30] God is always up to something

Bible Verses:

James 1:22

Romans 15:4

John 3:16

Acts 27:1 - 28:10

Hebrews 12:1-2

Descriptive Bible passages tell you what happened. These passages are the who, what, where, when, and how of the Bible. Sometimes descriptive passages teach us something for today.

Prescriptive Bible passages are commands such as, believe this, stop that, stay away from that, or pursue this.

John 3:16 is a prescriptive passage. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” We all have sinned and need to trust in Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross as payment for our sins.

Acts 27:1 - 28:10 is a descriptive passage, recounting Paul’s journey to trial before Caesar.

Paul warns his captors about the voyage being disastrous. He was ignored. During the trip, a violent storm came upon the ship and the sailors did all they could to secure the ship and cargo. They started to lose hope that they would survive, but Paul encouraged them all, assuring them that not one of them would be lost.

Throughout the long and perilous journey, Paul continued to encourage the people despite the dire situation. All along he pointed to God as the source for his positive outlook. Paul's actions even turned the heart of the centurion to spare his life.

Once safe on land, Paul continued to point people to God by surviving a venomous snake bite and healing the sick.

Paul's focus on God allowed him to become a leader and a source of encouragement for the others. Paul is an example for us of encouragement and thanksgiving, even in the midst of trials.

Focusing on God helps you navigate through life's storms and trials. Keep your eyes on God and not just on your circumstances. Trust in His sovereignty.