Shake it Off and Remain Standing

And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita. And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold. And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand. And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live. And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm. (Acts 28:1-5)

Christians often talk about their struggles and problems, but probably none have faced what Paul experienced. In our passage, Paul had just survived a shipwreck, endured freezing rain, and was among hardened criminals on an island full of people who hated Romans. To say he was in the middle of chaos would be an understatement. Yet, on that island, Paul chose to serve by building a fire. True followers of God step up to serve, regardless of their circumstances. As he prepared the fire for the community, a viper emerged from the firewood and attacked him. You need to understand that snakes don’t strike dead things; they only strike what’s moving. Paul wasn’t attacked until he increased the heat of the fire.

This viper was among the most venomous snakes known. The enemy will use poisonous words, betrayal, accusations, and discouragement to stop your progress. But the devil’s bite confirms that you are following God. What did Paul do? He shook the snake off into the fire he was building. Don’t just run from the enemy’s attack—burn it away with the fire of your faithfulness. The islanders waited for Paul to die, convinced he was a terrible sinner. They expected him to swell up or fall down, but he simply stood there. People will tell stories about you and why trouble is coming your way. But as you keep building the fire, your life will show them that you are following God. That moment with the snake opened the entire island to hear what Paul had to say.

Practical Application

Stay calm when confronted by the enemy's attack. Don’t panic; keep praising. Your dedication, prayers, and praise will be the fire that overcomes anything.

Numbers 21:6; Romans 16:20