Clear Direction

The apostle Paul was on his 2nd missionary journey and was revisiting the churches in Asia Minor to encourage the believers. He was traveling with Silas and desired to take the Gospel message to other cities in Asia. But God had a different plan for them. He prevented them from going to the other cities in Asia so they turned aside and headed towards a different region.

Upon reaching the border they were again prevented from going further into those cities by the Holy Spirit, so they passed by and went down to Troas.

During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.

I would imagine that you can relate to Paul and his desire to serve God and also with his experience with road blocks. Often we have good or even great intentions to serve God in a particular way that we feel would be best. But God has a different plan and to get us on the right course we might experience a Holy change of plans.

What a wonderful thing when we receive clear direction about what we should do.

As I read that portion of scripture I was reminded that God sees and knows everything. He knew Paul’s heart, where he was going and where God intended for him to be and He gently course corrected Paul along the way.

Isn’t that a great comfort when you are struggling with a decision? God sees the intentions of your heart. He sees the paths and ways you are trying to take to make them happen and He knows the best way for you to proceed.

Sometimes we need to slow down and take a moment to look and see where God intends for us to be, then quickly obey and go where God leads.

Be Intentional about seeking God’s clear direction.

Praises & Prayers

Father, thank you for watching over every detail of my life. You know my heart Lord and I’m grateful for the many unique ways that You give clear direction. Help me to do as Paul did and immediately follow Your leading. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Messages from His Word

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.