Paul was entrusted to Julius, a noble centurion from the Imperial Regiment. They would be sailing to Rome, and Paul had friends with him: Aristarchus, his frequent traveling companion (20:4; Col 4:10; Phm 24) as well as the author Luke (note the use of “we”). How valuable it is to have godly friends in our times of travel and trial! Their companionship was a blessing and provided for his needs. Who are you thankful to God for on this journey of discipleship?

The journey was plagued with difficulties from the beginning, resulting in lost time. Paul was not self-absorbed, but he paid attention to what was happening around him. His shepherd heart was beating with concern for his fellow travelers, even though he was their prisoner. This was why he gave such a dire warning: “I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous” (10). Julius chose to heed the advice of the sailors instead, a fateful decision.
Application: Father, thank you for companions on the journey, which double our joy and halve our sorrow. Please help me overcome self-centeredness and have the courage to be attentive to others with a word of warning, encouragement, or correction.
One Word: A prisoner, yet always a shepherd