Where There is a Will....(Acts 16:6-10)

 

The Macedonian Call

Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had told them not to go into the province of Asia at that time.  Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not let them go.  So instead they went on through Mysia to the city of Troas.  That night Paul had a vision.  He saw a man from Macedonia in northern Greece, pleading with him, "Come over here and help us."  So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, for we could only conclude that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. (Acts 16:6-10)

Two Attempts

Paul and Silas believed that God's will is found by moving forward.  In a Christian camp I worked at, the director's favorite saying was:  "It's always easier to stir a moving ship" . Indeed, I found this saying very helpful in my life.  Now, back to Paul and Silas as they tried a couple doors and could not go through for the Holy Spirit was diligently stopping them.  They trusted him to do something as they moved.  Over the years, I have learned to appreciated the delays that comes our way when we are traveling.  It's God's leading us maybe to avoid a catastrophe or an accident down the road.  Thank God for delays!  No problem, we will go a different route or accept the timing.  Certainly, patience doesn't just test our faith, but can also lead us in a new direction.  God really knows best on every subject!  We don't have to teach him anything.

The Vision

In the dark of the night came the answer.  They were trusting God with directions and delays and all of a sudden came a vision. An unexpected vision!

Do you ever have certain emotions or sensation that you have to do this or that at a certain time?  In the book "Anatomy of the Soul" from Curt Thompson.  He mentions that God will often let us know about his will through our emotions.  He makes the distinction between feelings and emotions.  God will not always use visions to speak to us. We must then acknowledge these emotions as benefitting us in our search for God's will.

You Move

Lastly, many people find it challenging to find God's will.  Obviously, the answer, obey the Bible.  The answer to his will might very well surprise you and might require a change on your part.  A change in character or lifestyle.  But in most cases you will have to make the first move to show your commitment to God.  If you don't want to, it will stay the same for a long time.