Storyteller

In this sermon, Pastor Dave emphasizes that even in the midst of seemingly hopeless situations—like being shipwrecked or bitten by a snake—God remains in control and has a plan for our lives. He uses the story of Paul in Acts to illustrate that sometimes we find ourselves on unexpected islands, but these circumstances can serve a greater purpose. Pastor encourages the congregation to shake off negativity and doubts, reminding them that what doesn't kill us ultimately strengthens us, and that God can use our trials for His glory. Ultimately, everyone is urged to trust in God's promises, recognizing that through challenges, our testimonies can inspire others.

Acts 27:20-26 When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved.

21 After they had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said: “Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss. 22 But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 23 Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ 25 So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. 26 Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island.”

Acts 28:1- Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta.

2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a snake a viper

4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, the goddess Justice has not allowed him to live.”

 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects.

6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead; but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happened to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.

7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and showed us generous hospitality for three days. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in many ways; and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.

Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Or quit