27/08/2026
*FRESH MANNA DEVOTIONAL*
Thursday 27th August, 2026.
Topic: A PURPOSE IN THE TRIALS.
Text: Acts 28:1-10
[1] Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta.
[2] And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.
[3] But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.”
[5] But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm.
[6] However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.
[7] In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days.
[8] And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.
[10] They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.
*MESSAGE:*
After surviving the peril of the shipwreck, Paul and the shipwrecked passengers recognized God's mercy in their deliverance. On the island of Malta, they kindled a fire for warmth. As Paul gathered a bundle of sticks, a viper struck his hand, yet he suffered no harm. The islanders, astonished, concluded he was a murderer, but Paul's steady witness redirected their attention: God's power at work through him. When Paul healed the father of Publius, and later many on the island were healed, hospitality flowed, and the people's fear turned to admiration, and some believed in the Lord Jesus Christ.
From hardship to hope, the text teaches: God permits testing, yet His mercy accompanies us. A steadfast faith invites opportunities to testify about Christ. Compassion and acts of healing reveal the character of the Gospel to skeptical hearts. Let these scenes remind you that God can turn our trials into platforms for grace. When you feel exposed or unsure, fix your gaze on God's sovereignty, which sustains you beyond the current moment. Like Paul, respond with prayer, courageous proclamation, and generous service, knowing God's purpose is bigger than your circumstance. In humble service, you become a conduit for divine mercy, attracting others to the Source of true life.
Memory Verse: Acts 27:23-24
[23] For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve,
[24] saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’
*My Confession:* I trust God's sovereignty in every trial.
*Prayers:*
1. May we trust God's protection and guidance always.
2. Help us Lord in our actions and words, even in danger or discomfort.
3. May healing, mercy, and hospitality flow through us to the world
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