Fully Reliant On God

Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read Acts 27:33-28:5 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

Saved!

In this passage from Acts we reach the climax of the disaster when the ship that Paul was on suffers tremendous damage and is broken up. The passage is full of jeopardy. Soldiers who are considering killing the prisoners to ensure they can’t escape, a storm that has raged for days with no signs of abating, confusion of where the ship actually is, and the ship itself breaking up and at risk of sinking. We are presented with a picture of fear and uncertainty that is hard to imagine.

Good Friday carries striking parallels to this story. It is a day of darkness, pain, and fear. The difference, however, is stark: on the cross, Jesus faced certain death, while those on the ship clung to hope guided by Paul. Yet both moments reveal how faith transforms fear.

The cross is a place where we can turn when we feel the darkness, despair and fear of life. Jesus encountered it first and in Him we can find comfort and hope. The pain may not go away but Jesus provides us with the strength to go on and assurance that He is with us in those difficult times.

Amid the chaos on the ship Paul’s response is extraordinary. From his conversion onward, he learned to depend fully on Christ. That deep trust enables him to remain calm and confident, even as danger looms. He breaks bread and gives thanks—an act echoing the Last Supper—bringing hope to all aboard and in that moment, faith becomes tangible.

Against all odds, 276 people survive, washed ashore safely. In life’s trials, we cannot guarantee such endings. But we can follow Paul’s example—and Jesus’—by laying everything before the Father in prayer and trusting Him completely. It is good to be reminded that God hears us, even in the storm.

This Good Friday, as we reflect on Christ’s passion, may we be inspired to depend fully on Him, be thankful that through His grace and sacrifice we are saved, and embrace the personal relationship He offers.

Let us pray: Lord Jesus helps us to full rely upon you whatever life may bring. Amen.