SOAP 02/20/2012; Acts 27:24

Today's reading: Numbers 7; Psalms 23; Acts 27
S)"²⁴ saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar; and behold, God has granted you all those who are sailing with you.’"

Acts 27:24 (NASB)

O) Firstly, this is just one more example of other people, people who don't even necessarily believe in the LORD, let alone serve Him... another example of others being blessed by proximity to Paul (or another blessed man). Secondly, how important was it that Paul was able to hear from God directly and clearly? Not only was his blessing from God able to overflow him and be upon those men endangered with him, but he was able to minister to them and keep them from harming themselves by conveying God's message of safety and protection.

A) I need to pray for the protection and provision of those around me. I also need to be actively listening to God. I'm afraid I still don't do this as often as I should (I'm not sure anyone really can do that "as ofthen as they should")... despite it being a struggle, I'm hopeful that as long as I'm able to see that area of improvement, then I'm able to work on improving it. Today, at least, I will give an attentive ear to God and listen for what He would have me know today.

P) Father, thank You for the protection and provision You give me by grace. Thank You for blessing those around me, not for my sake, but for Your Name sake, alone. Today especially, Holy Spirit, speak to me and let me know the will of the Father for whatever I will face today. Give me warning, encouragement, direction, or whatever else I may need to know. I will choose to be obedient in whatever it is. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.