Acts 27:25
Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.
ACTS 27:25
Paul’s concluding exhortation—“be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me”—ties the prior promises to a personal act of faith. He proclaims confidence in God’s word despite the ship’s fate. This is not a Pollyanna optimism but a disciplined faith anchored in divine promise. The faith expressed is communal, as the exhortation addresses all aboard. It also highlights a recurring Pauline theme: belief in God’s faithfulness shapes one’s present experience, turning fear into courage and uncertainty into hope. The authority behind his claim rests on his relationship with God and the reliability of God’s word.
This verse foregrounds trust as a posture: belief in God’s promises translates into courageous action and stable demeanor in crisis. It also reinforces the link between hearing from God and acting on it, even when circumstances contradict expectations. The certainty of God’s faithfulness enables believers to endure hardship with hope, shaping a robust, resilient faith.
Practice daily reminders of God’s promises—write them on sticky notes, set reminders, or share them with a friend. When storms come, speak truth to fear: “I believe God.” Let this belief shape your decisions, speech, and actions—calmly engaging with others, planning for the risky steps, and modeling trust for those around you. Consider journaling moments when you see God’s faithfulness in small ways to strengthen future resolve.
Cross-References: Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 4:21; Hebrews 10:23; Psalm 46:10; Psalm 27:14