Whom Do You Trust?

“Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.”—Acts 27:11 NKJV

The ship carrying Paul toward Rome faced dangerous conditions. He warned passengers and crew that the voyage ahead would be a disaster. There would be economic loss. And some would die.

Pondering his options for the voyage, the centurion in charge of prisoner transportation could have listened to the ship’s captain, who had experience steering a ship, or he could have trusted Paul.

From a human perspective, there was no reason to trust Paul. He had no experience piloting a ship. And he was just a prisoner. But Paul knew God. Paul had spiritual discernment and was sensitive to God’s leading.

Nonetheless, the centurion believed the captain. It was a dangerous choice.

Each day we face many crossroads. As we ponder our options, we can be caught up in the pressure to think like the people around us and rely on human logic. But the Bible reminds us that we always need to trust in God and allow Him to guide us, to fill our minds and hearts with His Word, and to stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

Right now, think about the decisions you face. Whom do you trust? The people of this world? Or God and His Word? Are you basing your decisions on the world’s wisdom, or following the leading of His Spirit?

In every situation, be sure to seek God. Cry out for His wisdom. Stay sensitive to His Spirit. Trust Him.

Reflection Question: Compose a prayer asking for God’s guidance in your next season.