People assume that ancient believers had an intimate connection with God that modern day churchgoers can’t have. Rather than seeing Jesus' disciples as examples, they see them as almost mythological figures—people contemporary Christians could never become.
Those early followers undoubtedly had incredible moments of revelation, but they also had to find a way forward amid challenges and turmoils. It wasn't always easy for them and they often had to learn some things along the way.
In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were trying to determine their next assignment. Sometimes God's direction was evident, but on other occasions, it required deeper exploration to uncover the next step.
"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).
This beloved duo originally planned to travel to the distant reaches of Asia, but as their way was blocked, they pivoted. Paul and Silas kept listening and adapting.
"Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas" (Acts 16:7-8).
Once again, the duo had to process the Lord's leadings. What they originally envisioned wasn't what they encountered further down the road. Nevertheless, this didn't discourage them. The men were willing to cast aside the "maps" and enter territories far beyond anywhere they had ever gone.
They were unsure of where to go, but fortunately, a new sense of direction emerged. Amid prayer, Paul experienced a heavenly vision that helped him determine the next step.
"That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, 'Come over to Macedonia and help us!' So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there" (Acts 16:9-10).
In the end, Paul and Silas made it to Greece. They reached this God-orchestrated destination after some unintended side tours. Throughout this ordeal, they had to learn to listen and focus on what the Lord was showing them.
Sometimes one's destiny will only be realized after they advance into the chaos. God is undoubtedly inviting you to go on an exciting journey. However, you'll never discover those astounding passageways if you're reluctant to move.
It is time to truly process the leadings of the Lord.
Great blog!
Well done. I couldn’t have said it better. Well maybe a little. No I agree with you 100%. How about those apples.