THE SHIELD XII From the Fair Havens
And coasting along it with difficulty, we arrived at a place called Fair Havens…Acts 27:8 AMPC
Paul was on a great mission and doubtless eager to proceed, but he warned the captain not to launch out from the harbour in Fair Havens.
We spent a long time there, until it became dangerous to continue the voyage, for by now the Day of Atonement was already past. So Paul gave them this advice: Acts 27:9 GNT
They disregarded his advice and ended up in shipwreck at Malta. Nonetheless all lives were saved and the whole affair led to a great miracle and ministry on the island.
IN LIFE
A man traverses the rough seas of life until he finds a safe harbour in Christ. Then he dwells in the fair havens of the church, built upon that Rock that stands the test of time and trouble.
John 16:33 ESV“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
IN MISSION
Then from there, the man being equipped and feeling confident to proceed, he launches out back into the waves in answer to THE CALL.
Jesus explained it like this,
Some are born with the call: John the Baptist, Jeremiah etc.
Some are sent: Paul, Ezekiel etc.
Some just go: think about those mighty men who joined themselves to David, etc.
One thing is clear, predestination is available to all:
Ephesians 2:10 ESVFor we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.Whether you were born set apart, sent by divine decree or went simply in answer to ‘The Great Commission’ - make sure you follow the correct call. There are so many voices in the world, and the Bible says they all have some or other significance. There is but one voice that calms the storms and takes you to the other side. Listen for His voice…
1 Peter 2:25 ERVYou were like sheep that went the wrong way. But now you have come back to the Shepherd and Protector of your lives.https://youtu.be/HEM3FLkTPrI?si=DD68E78a_m0lG1IE
