The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, so that none of them would swim away and escape; but the centurion, wanting to bring Paul safely through, kept them from their intention, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, and the rest should follow, some on planks, and others on various things from the ship. And so it happened that they all were brought safely to land. Acts 27:42-44
Christians can be a saving influence in dangerous situations. Paul’s insight and influence saved the entire crew from the storm that would sink the ship and from the hasty soldiers who would have killed every prisoner. You could say that the apostle Paul was saved so that in this instance, he could save others. That’s part of what God is doing in the world through those of us who have found Christ and the new life in Him.
Who in my circle of influence is yet to be saved? How can I help them escape the greatest shipwreck in life, living apart from God?
Lord, I know I have eternal purpose in this area. You saved me with the intention of using my life to bring godly insight and influence for the sake of others. Please lead and guide me today in what I say and do, to that end.
