October 22, 2018: SOAP #3245:  Job 11-12; Acts 15-16

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 16:6 Paul and his companions travelled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 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.

Observation:  “…kept by the Holy Spirit,”  “…the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them,” “…Paul had a vision…concluding that God had called them…”  The Great Commission to go into all the earth and preach was given by Jesus.  Now, as Paul moves out from Jerusalem and Antioch, God has some guidance for Paul.  God spoke to Paul about the specifics for Paul’s ministry.

Application:  God has specific direction for fulfilling what God has given me.  When thoughts that come to my mind, and feelings that grow in my heart are in alignment with what I have been reading in the scriptures—I am quite probably hearing God speak to me.  I need to be quick to obey.

When thoughts that dominate my mind and the feelings I have in my heart are contrary to my plans, I need to back off.  I need to lay aside those plans and wait for clearer direction from God.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, You are speaking today just as you were in the book of Acts.  Please do not stop!  Develop in me a keen awareness of your presence and your will. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!