Thursday, July 21, 2016

Acts, Chapter 27, verse 29

29 Fearing that we would run aground on a rocky coast, they dropped four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come.

Paul was under arrest and was an inmate on a prison ship bound for Rome, when the ship he was on, was in danger of being sunk. Yet, God had not abandoned Paul. His faith saved him and also the crew. Paul in this case really did lead from behind.

The Law of Influence: An Inmate Takes Command (Acts 27:4-44)[1]

1.      Paul built trust which influences his jailer, Julius, to allow special privileges, noting his trustworthiness.

2.      He took the initiative by stepping in when action was needed.

3.      He possessed good judgment through his use of wisdom and experience.

4.      He spoke with authority and credibility based on earlier actions.

5.      He showed optimism and confidence by speaking boldly.

6.      He gave encouragement to the hopeless that feared their survival and loss at sea.

7.      He was honest and candid about the problems they faced.

8.      He did not compromise on absolutes from God-given instructions.

9.      He stayed focused on objectives not obstacles.

10.  He led by example by modeling the right attitude.

Remember to build trust first with God and then with others when you are in danger knowing we are all in the same ship and we are all seasick.

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[1] John Maxwell, The Maxwell Leadership Bible