Recognizing God’s Guidance
By Jennifer Slattery
“When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So, they passed by Mysia 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.” – Acts 16:7-10
I’ve wasted hours, probably years combined, of my life fretting over God’s will. Times when I’ve longed for some supernatural “word” but felt as if the Lord ignored my requests for guidance. I’ve also landed in numerous messes because I proceeded without first seeking Christ’s thoughts on my seemingly brilliant plans. While I’ve grown in my ability to discern and follow God’s lead, I’m nowhere near as alert and pliable as Paul, the first century church planter who exemplified what it means to live completely in step with the Savior.
In Acts 16, we see a man with a plan, and likely a well-thought out one at that, who was willing to obediently, and immediately, abandon his agenda, without question. This was during Paul’s second missionary journey. Apparently, he and his companions longed to bring the gospel to Asia, but the Holy Spirit kept them from doing so. Undaunted, they continued through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, only to experience more divine redirects.
Notice from today’s passage, Paul wasn’t discouraged by all the obvious “closed doors.” Nor did he remain so fixated on his plans, that he stubbornly tried to push his way forward. But he didn’t remain stuck in indecision either. He kept moving forward, trusting God to nudge him in the right direction, and then following, without hesitation.
This passage reminds me that sometimes God’s nos point us to His best yes.
I’m also struck by the fact that Paul’s ministry partners accompanied him—without question.
Why? What was it about Paul that evoked such confidence in his companions? And how did he know, with such certainty, when the Spirit told him to go, wait, and stop? The answer is revealed in Philippians 1:21, where he wrote, “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” The passage prior reveals the truth of these words. In verses 15-18, he wrote:
It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.”
Notice, also, the anguish he expressed in Romans 9:3: “For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own race … “
This statement takes on added depth when one realizes it was a group of Jews who followed Paul from place to place, to persecute him. Yet, despite their hatred and abuse, his heart remained for them. Just as Christ’s heart remained for them.
Thankfully, God faithfully guides His children toward His very best, even when we don’t hear Him, or misinterpret His signals. We discern His voice most clearly, however, when it’s not competing with ours. In other words, the more selfish motives drive our actions, the weaker our spiritual sensitivity. When we follow Paul’s example, as declared in Romans 12:1, and offer our whole selves to God as “a living sacrifice,” His will becomes clear.
Intersection of Faith & Life:
Most of us battle mixed motives on our most Christ-honoring days. Praise God, He continually showers us with grace upon grace, more than we could ever need, and certainly more than we’ll ever exhaust. But as we continually turn from our pride and selfishness, and toward Christ and His mission, He gives us clarity in place of confusion, peace instead of angst, and supernatural power to our steps.
If this is your desire, perhaps begin each day with a simple prayer, asking God to increase your love for Him, His mission, and His people. Invite Him to remove your thoughts and will and replace them with His thoughts and will, and to heighten your spiritual sensitivity so that you can hear Him more clearly.
Further Reading:
Galatians 5:13-26
Ephesians 5:1-14
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/AronVisuals
Jennifer Slattery is a writer and speaker who co-hosts the Faith Over Fear podcast and, along with a team of 6, the Your Daily Bible Verse podcast. She’s addressed women’s groups, Bible studies, and taught at writers conferences across the nation. She’s the author of Building a Family and numerous other titles and maintains a devotional blog at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLou
She’s passionate about helping people experience Christ’s freedom in all areas of their lives. Visit her online to learn more about her speaking or to book her for your next women’s event, and sign up for her free quarterly newsletter HERE and make sure to connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and GodTube.
Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com!
Related Resource: How Habit Stacking Will Help You Discipline Your Mind, Body, & Spirit
The process of success is not hidden. It is on display for anyone to see. However, it is a daily grind that requires a great deal of work that is tedious and often uncomfortable. Successful people simply do the work. They embrace the grind and everything that comes with it. Ultimately, successful people understand this truth - Hope doesn’t produce change. Habits do! Everyone has the desire, but many lack the necessary discipline! That’s why today on The Built Different Podcast we have a very special guest who understands the importance of discipline and habits at a very high level. Don’t just focus on changing the thoughts in your head and the habits in your life, but also allow God to transform your heart from the inside out. If you like what you hear, be sure to subscribe to The Built Different Podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTube so you never miss an episode!
