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Day 9:
There’s absolutely nothing worse than being on a boat on the open sea in the middle of a hurricane. I’ve given up on eating. The motion prevents me from keeping anything down.
There is some concern about whether or not the boat will make it through the storm. During the first week, the sailors had us help throw tackle overboard. They’d already dumped the cargo. We’ve seen nothing but waves and dark clouds for days and days.
The hold of the ship reeks of vomit, and resonates with the fearful cries of the prisoners confined there. I find it difficult to face their horrified, wide-eyed stares. I’ve tried to help where I can, but my own sickness makes treating patients a bit of a challenge. My limited supplies aren’t helping either.
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Day 10:
Paul amazes me. Although he’s a favorite of the captain and is allowed to go up on the deck from time to time, he’s chosen to spend most of his time down among his fellow-prisoners. They seem quieter when he’s with them. Of course, that could have something to do with the songs he sings and his prayers. He always seems to find a way to rise above the trial. He finds a way to be content in whatever circumstances he finds himself. His happiness, joy, and contentment are found someplace other than in the things he’s going through. I marvel at the calm that seems to surround him in this situation. I’ve found that compared to his, my faith is weak. But, I’m learning from his example.
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Day 11:
Paul gave us all hope today that we will live through this storm. An angel came and spoke to him last night and told him that we’ll make it, but the ship won’t. Paul has an appointment with Caesar, and God wants him to keep that appointment. I’m not sure how it will all work out, but I know that it will.
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Day 14:
It’s amazing what a little hope and the sight of land can do to restore a person’s outlook. Paul advised that we all eat a bit. The sailors are talking and laughing and they believe we can actually make it to shore. The prisoners have even perked up a bit. Of course, fresh air and food are most helpful in that regard.
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Day 16:
The angel was right. We all made it to shore. Not one person was lost; though the boat didn’t fare so well. Paul needs my help so I must go, but before I do, I must record something that I’ve learned that is quite profound: Our happiness, contentment, and joy are not dependent on the circumstances in which we find ourselves. There is peace in the midst of the storm, and joy and happiness can be found in the middle of even the darkest trial. Take heart and keep pressing on. Victory lies ahead.
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Author's Note: This is a story based on the account of Paul's shipwreck in Acts 27, and told from Luke's perspective.
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
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