Now when they had escaped, they then found found out that the island was called Malta. 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. 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. So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, and they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom through he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.” But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. 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.
Acts 28:1-6
The Bible is life’s manual, because no matter what we are going through or facing in life, the Bible has a solution. People often ask “Why does God allow evil to happen in the world?” But we have to remember that as long as it is called life, these things are inevitable and it’s not because of God. As it is written “Indeed they shall surely assemble, but not because of Me. Whoever assembles against you shall fall for your sake.” The beginning quoted verse has brought me through many hard times. Because when we think that we have escaped one situation, another one comes. Life will produce much rain, cold, and vipers too entangle us. People close to us will judge us because of the situation, and await our downfall. But the Apostle Paul provides an answer for how to deal with these things by simply saying “Shake It Off.” Let me remind you that you are never alone in all that you are going through, because God Himself has said that “He will never leave you nor forsake you.” And like in the physical, and in the spiritual, no teacher speaks during a test, except in a quiet voice.
The world will judge you and misunderstand you, but only God’s opinions matter. Let love, faith, and hope never leave you. Press forward and keep your eyes on the prize. Nothings grows without sunshine and rain; and will bring forth fruit in its season. By the grace of God you are who you are; priceless beyond measure, and fearfully and wonderfully made. God calls us an “Olive tree”, and an olive tree produces oil when pressed. It remains firmly strong, no matter the weather or conditions of life. So let us shake off everything that tries to entangle us.
Do not give your honor to others, and your tears to the cruel one.
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