SERIES: DIRECTIONS AFTER LIFE-ALTERING EVENTS

Near death and traumatic experiences have a way of shaking us to the core. We survive with a clearer picture of how vulnerable we are. They can leave us with our guards down and an expectation of more hurt and new fears. God, who gives us all things which pertain to life and godliness, has provided us with mind-changing faith and directions for the days ahead.

After Paul survived the ship-wretch caused by a devastating storm, he experienced the hand of the Lord yet on him for good. Within hours after the making it to land on boards and broken pieces, the fire to provide relief from the rain and cold brought with it a viper that would have ended Paul's life. Paul shook off the viper in the fire. Those around him who expected the venom to do what the storm failed to do. However, they changed their mind after a great while because Paul never stopped standing.

If the strangers around Paul could change their mind because they saw that God was with him, how much more should our minds be changed when God's faithful presence and sustaining purpose for our lives defies every threat of defeat and keeps us going.