S. Acts 16:7-10
7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 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.
O. Paul had in mind places where he wanted to go and minister for Christ. However, twice the Holy Spirit kept him from going where he desired to serve only to later call Paul to go to Macedonia for the work there.
Despite two “closed doors” of service, Paul continued to travel, seeking where the Lord might use him. (v.8) There is no recorded account of Paul simply giving up; or complaining about God’s timing. Luke simply writes that upon a closed door, Paul is continuing to travel. He then has a dream of a man from Macedonia asking for help. Paul takes this as an open door of service. Paul travels to Macedonia and experiences a very fruitful ministry there.
A. I have also experienced times of God “closing “ doors and “opening” doors. My experience is that God’s timing is always spot on! Imagine that. While we wait for God to open a door or create a ministry pathway, we should continue to serve Him with our gifts wherever and whenever we can.
P. Thank you Father for your word today. I know your timing and calling is always right on. Holy Spirit fill me and guide me to continued serving where I am while I wait for that door to effective ministry to open. In Jesus’ name!
