The word “encourage” means “to give hope, courage, and confidence to.” It includes concepts of heartening, fostering, and helping. A leader cannot invent motivation; he can only unlock it. Have you ever thought of the difference between work and play? Why is it that work tires one out much more than play does? It is the mental attitude—so, if you want to make your work easier, think of it as play.Acts 27 describes the beginning of Paul’s voyage to Rome. Paul began as a prisoner; he ended as the captain of the ship. Paul had taken over the situation when it was obvious that no one else knew what to do.A crisis does not make a person; a crisis shows what a person is made of! It tends to bring true leadership to the forefront. Acts 27:21-26 must have been very encouraging words to all the men who were aboard the ship. Paul’s words of encouragement were the only thing they had to hold on to. The ship would sink, but no one would die.What an opportunity it was to give Paul the privilege of bringing the gospel of hope to this group of men, many of whom were criminals. Paul was not merely an optimist; he had something solid on which to base his words of encouragement and cheer. Paul had received a visit from an angel of God during the night hours. Paul spoke of God as a living Person, “whose I am, and whom I serve.” Paul’s confidence was in the true and living God.
We too can have this testimony and confidence in the Lord Jesus and in His Word. May each believer be encouraged in the promises of God. Paul was destined to appear before Caesar. He had been aware of the promise, “I must see Rome” (Acts 19:21). And Paul was absolutely right. He must see Rome, and indeed, he saw Rome (Acts 28:11-16).
God is faithful and His Word is true.
March/April 2008