Changing Directions

Acts 16:6-10

Next 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. 7 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. 8 So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas.

9 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!” 10 So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. Acts 16:6–10

Paul had a godly plan.

God had a different plan.

Paul obeyed.

God will guide you if you trust him.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5–6

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:5–8

Let’s talk about open doors.

Upon arriving in Antioch, they called the church together and reported everything God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles, too. Acts 14:27.

When I came to the city of Troas to preach the Good News of Christ, the Lord opened a door of opportunity for me. 2 Corinthians 2:12.

And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Colossians 4:3.

There is a wide-open door for a great work here, although many oppose me. 1 Corinthians 16:9.

How do we know?

Whatever God calls you to do will line up with Scripture.
Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105.

Godly counsel

Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit

Circumstances.

Be active as you look for God’s open door.

What does that mean for me?

God has a master plan, and my life is one piece of that.

God desires to use me to be at the right place and the right time for someone.

God’s timing matters.

Not every difficulty is a closed door.
There is a wide-open door for a great work here, although many oppose me. 1 Corinthians 16:9