12 But it was not the best harbor for staying the winter. Phoenix, a few miles further on, was more suitable.
13 When a gentle southerly breeze came up, they weighed anchor, thinking it would be smooth sailing. 14 But they were no sooner out to sea than a gale-force wind, the infamous nor'easter, struck. 15 They lost all control of the ship. It was a cork in the storm. 16 We came under the lee of the small island named Clauda, and managed to get a lifeboat ready and reef the sails. 17 But rocky shoals prevented us from getting close. We only managed to avoid them by throwing out drift anchors. 18 Next day, out on the high seas again and badly damaged now by the storm, we dumped the cargo overboard. 19 The third day the sailors lightened the ship further by throwing off all the tackle and provisions. 20 It had been many days since we had seen either sun or stars. Wind and waves were battering us unmercifully, and we lost all hope of rescue.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 27:12-20
Commentary on Acts 27:12-20
(Read Acts 27:12-20)
Those who launch forth on the ocean of this world, with a fair gale, know not what storms they may meet with; and therefore must not easily take it for granted that they have obtained their purpose. Let us never expect to be quite safe till we enter heaven. They saw neither sun nor stars for many days. Thus melancholy sometimes is the condition of the people of God as to their spiritual matters; they walk in darkness, and have no light. See what the wealth of this world is: though coveted as a blessing, the time may come when it will be a burden; not only too heavy to be carried safely, but heavy enough to sink him that has it. The children of this world can be prodigal of their goods for the saving their lives, yet are sparing of them in works of piety and charity, and in suffering for Christ. Any man will rather make shipwreck of his goods than of his life; but many rather make shipwreck of faith and a good conscience, than of their goods. The means the sailors used did not succeed; but when sinners give up all hope of saving themselves, they are prepared to understand God's word, and to trust in his mercy through Jesus Christ.