PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Acts 27:1-12
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Julius, in kindness to Paul, allowed him to go to his friends…” (Acts 27:3)
Paul is a prisoner, being taken to face charges before Caesar in Rome.
This centurion is a servant of Rome, loyal to Caesar, yet he is not evil.
Paul was blessed by his act of kindness.
Kindness is not restricted to those who know and love God.
Sin affects all of us alike, but there remain signs of goodness.
In all people there are indications that we are children of God.
Muslims, Atheists, Jews, Christians, Prostitutes, Gang Members, etc.
As Paul says, non-Jews have signs of God’s law written on their hearts (Romans 2:14-15).
Our world is filled with bad news, but there are still signs of good news to be seen.
The Spirit of God is working out his kindness in others, whether they believe or not.
He causes his goodness to shine on them, and through them, because he still loves them.
“He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good.” (Matthew 5:45)
Today I will look for evidence of the Lord’s sunshine in people other than Christians.
I will be encouraged that he is not done with them yet, nor should I be.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to look for, and appreciate, how your blessing shines through others. May all believers and unbelievers come to see you as the source of all light.
Paul is a prisoner being escorted by Julius who is a centurion of the Imperial regiment. Yet Julius trust Paul and lets allows him to visit with his friends when they land in Sidon. Later when Paul advises him not to continue in the face of difficult weather…”instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.” The Centurion will learn that Paul has a higher connection – but at this time he listens to the pilot and owner of the ship. I’ve found that even if people don’t accept what we say or do, if its true and genuine – not manipulative or propaganda – we will be respected and our voice will be heard. Paul was respected and got the favor of Julius – Julius will learn more about Paul’s connection with God in time!