The Book of Acts

A Call from Macedonia

Acts 16:6-10 _NLT

“Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time.” - Acts 16:6

                  Verses 6-10 are very interesting in that they deal with a topic that is very pertinent to us today. First, we find that Paul is being directed by God thru His Holy Spirit to avoid Asia at this time. We are not given a reason. Then the “Spirit of Jesus” (another name used for the Holy Spirit) directed the Apostle & his companions to avoid Bithynia, north of Asia. Paul didn’t question these changes in his plans for they were obviously not where God wished them to go for the time being. Secondly, that night, we find that Paul had a vision from the Lord which showed a Macedonian man crying out to the Apostle saying, “Come over to Macedonia & help us.”

                  We have no way of knowing by what means the Spirit diverted their path; however, this vision made crystal clear to Paul exactly where he was to go next to preach & teach the gospel. No prodding was needed, for Paul readily obeyed the Lord and lead his group on to Macedonia.

                  It is intriguing to me that God not only reveals His will by any number of ways, He also reveals what His will is NOT, as shown in these verses. When you are seeking the will of God, make sure that you are looking to embark on is in line with God’s Word. If necessary, seek the council of mature Christians. Take a candid look at your own motivation. Is what you’re looking to undertake what God wants or what you want? Finally, ask the Lord in prayer to open & close doors as He so wills to help you determine which direction to go & exactly what you are to do.

                  Remember, God doesn’t need our help, but rather has chosen to use us for some unknown reason, to present the gospel, among other things. “God pulled you out of the pit so you could reach back in & get more people out...NEVER forget that.” *  Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible

* Quote - Unknown