S – But the centurion kept them from carrying out their plan because he wanted to save Paul, and so he ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to land. ⁴⁴

Acts 27:43–44 CSB

O – Commentary:

Because soldiers were accountable with their own lives for any prisoners who escaped (cf. 12:19; 16:27) they planned to kill the prisoners to prevent any of them from swimming away and escaping. For the soldiers this was simply a matter of self-preservation.

The centurion, however, wanted to spare Paul’s life. He saw the value and trustworthiness of this prisoner and so forestalled the soldiers’ plan. Obviously God was sovereignly at work to spare Paul for ministry at Rome and to guarantee the fulfillment of his prediction (v. 24)

“Acts,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – God granted Paul favor with the centurion even in all the other “storms” in his life.  It is hard to imagine the strength Paul is showing while  a prisoner, in terrible storms, on a boat ready to be destroyed, hadn’t eaten in 14 days and still, he knows he is going to make it to Rome.  All of it comes together to fulfill God’s plan.  When people ask, “Why do bad things happen to good people,” this shows that God is a part of this too.  Only God knows why he allowed all of those challenges but He did.

R – Heavenly Father, you are all present and powerful.  We invite you to do your will in our lives today.  We surrender our expectations and will to you.  We trust that you have our best interest in the purpose and plan you have for us.