Paul was not in a “bubble.”  He experienced cold, the storm of wind and waves.  Fourteen days of being caught at sea in a Nor’easter.  When their ship became grounded and was breaking up from the force of the waves…some swam, others found planks and whatever else they could use to help them get to shore. (Acts 27:14-15, 37, 43-44)

There were 276 shipwrecked men.  All of those men made it onto the beach.  Natives of that island were extraordinary in their kindness.  They kindled a fire for those wet and cold men. (Acts 28:1-2)

Paul was among those shipwrecked men.  God had not promised him a smooth life.  And we also are not promised a smooth life with no challenges.

But what does God promise all who turn to Him and receive Jesus as their Savior?  Life with our God in eternity!  When we die we will be in the presence of our God!

Paul was not in a “bubble.”  All the lives aboard that ship were saved from the sea.  All went through hard and dangerous circumstances together.  All were exhausted, wet, miserable and hungry.  Paul experienced all of those things.

Followers of Christ, you do not live in a “bubble” of protection, separated from those around you.
At the same time, God’s care for you includes everyone who is in the circumstances you are experiencing.

God’s care for you does not mean you will be protected from suffering pain, cold, miserable conditions or hunger.

God’s care for you does mean His will for you will be accomplished.  And He will be with you in your circumstances!  His name is Emmanuel (God with us).