In The Word
Read: Acts 28:1-16
Safe at Malta
28 When they had been brought safely through, then we found out that the island was called Malta. 2 The natives showed us extraordinary kindness; for because of the rain that had set in and because of the cold, they kindled a fire and received us all. 3 But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened itself on his hand. 4 When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they began saying to one another, “Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, and though he has been saved from the sea, justice has not allowed him to live.” 5 However he shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no harm. 6 But they were expecting that he was about to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had waited a long time and had seen nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and began to say that he was a god.
7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the leading man of the island, named Publius, who welcomed us and entertained us courteously three days. 8 And it happened that the father of Publius was lying in bed afflicted with recurrent fever and dysentery; and Paul went in to see him and after he had prayed, he laid his hands on him and healed him. 9 After this had happened, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases were coming to him and getting cured. 10 They also honored us with many marks of respect; and when we were setting sail, they supplied us with all we needed.
Paul Arrives at Rome
11 At the end of three months we set sail on an Alexandrian ship which had wintered at the island, and which had the Twin Brothers for its figurehead. 12 After we put in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days. 13 From there we sailed around and arrived at Rhegium, and a day later a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli. 14 There we found some brethren, and were invited to stay with them for seven days; and thus we came to Rome. 15 And the brethren, when they heard about us, came from there as far as the Market of Appius and Three Inns to meet us; and when Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
16 When we entered Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation
Walking In The Word
After surviving the storm at sea, Paul was bitten by a snake. It is a proven fact that if a viper bites you, there is no good outcome. But to the surprise of the superstitious crew, Paul did not suffer any effect, not even a swollen hand. They had never seen anything like that. It seemed that everywhere they went they received warm welcomes, great hospitality, and overwhelming support for their journey. Even the winds seemed to aid in bringing them safely to their destination, Rome. As those around Paul witnessed all these wonders, I imagine the question was asked, “Who is this man and what is so special about him?”
What made Paul stand out among men was God’s favor. Paul was being faithful to the mission of God. He was unwavering and acceptant of God’s purpose. God is always faithful to the faithful. He proves this through His favor over our lives. It is not only this favor that blesses the individual but those around them as well. This was the case with Paul and his company. They benefited from God’s favor over Paul’s life.
Many Christians never experience the life of favor. They miss the blessings and the ability to be a blessing. Dearly beloved, God wants to show you favor. Are you being faithful in your call and your walk? If not, repent and turn to God that you may live a life that is marked by God’s favor.