Have you ever felt like you finally survived a massive storm, only to get bitten by a snake the moment you stepped onto dry land?
In Acts 28, the Apostle Paul finds himself in this exact scenario. After surviving a terrifying, weeks-long shipwreck on his way to Rome, he washes ashore on the island of Malta. The weather is cold and rainy, so the islanders build a fire. Paul, always a servant-leader, gathers a bundle of sticks to help. But as he lays them on the fire, a venomous viper driven out by the heat fastens itself onto his hand.
The locals immediately judge him. They assume he must be a murderer whom justice wouldn’t allow to live. But Paul doesn’t panic. He simply shakes the snake off into the fire and suffers no ill effects.
When the islanders see that he doesn’t swell up or drop dead, their perspective changes completely. God uses this sudden crisis to open a massive door for the Gospel, leading to the healing of the island chief’s father and many others on Malta.
Here are three powerful lessons we can learn from Paul’s snake bite:
1. Expect Attacks When You’re Serving
Paul didn’t get bitten while sitting around; he got bitten while gathering wood to keep others warm. Often, the enemy waits to strike when you are actively stepping into your calling or serving those around you. Do not be surprised when a “snake” shows up in your environment just as you are doing good.
2. Shake It Off Quickly
Paul didn’t coddle the snake, analyze the snake, or complain about the snake. He shook it off into the fire. In life and ministry, people will throw “venomous” words, offenses, and false accusations at you. If you hold onto them, the poison will seep into your heart. You have to learn the art of shaking it off and letting God’s fire consume the offense.
3. Trust God to Change the Narrative
The very thing the enemy meant for evil, God turned into an advertisement for His power. The islanders went from calling Paul a murderer to realizing the supernatural protection of God was upon him. When you trust God through an unexpected attack, your survival becomes a testimony that introduces others to the power of Jesus.
Whatever unexpected “bite” you are facing today—whether it’s a sudden crisis, a betrayal, or a setback right after a victory—don’t let it panic you. Shake it off, keep your eyes on Jesus, and watch how He uses a moment of crisis to display His glory.
