Matthew Henry Commentary Acts 27:12-20

"And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to put to sea from thence, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, and winter [there; which is] a haven of Crete, looking northeast and south-east. And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, close in shore. But after no long time there beat down from it a tempestuous wind, which is called Euraquilo: and when the ship was caught, and could not face the wind, we gave way [to it,] and were driven. And running under the lee of a small island called Cauda, we were able, with difficulty, to secure the boat: and when they had hoisted it up, they used helps, under-girding the ship; and, fearing lest they should be cast upon the Syrtis, they lowered the gear, and so were driven. And as we labored exceedingly with the storm, the next day they began to throw the [the freight] overboard; and the third day they cast out with their own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars shone upon [us] for many days, and no small tempest lay on [us,] all hope that we should be saved was now taken away." — Acts 27:12-20 (ASV)

Those who set out on the ocean of this world with a favorable wind do not know what storms they may encounter; and therefore, they must not easily take it for granted that they have achieved their purpose. Let us never expect to be completely safe until we enter heaven. They saw neither sun nor stars for many days.

Thus, the condition of the people of God regarding their spiritual matters is sometimes melancholy; they walk in darkness, and have no light. Consider what the wealth of this world is: though desired 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 the one who has it. The children of this world can be lavish with their goods to save their lives, yet they are sparing with them in works of piety and charity, and in suffering for Christ. Anyone would rather wreck their goods than their life; but many would rather wreck their faith and a good conscience than 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.