Day 13

Read: Acts 16:1-10

Introduction: Have you ever had those seasons in life when you are trying to make life plans and it seems like you hit brick wall after brick wall? It can seem like every door in life is closed and that there is nowhere to go. In those moments, when life is not going as planned, it is easy to get frustrated and stressed out. Uncertainty can be unsettling. During Paul’s second missionary journey, he finds himself in one of those life situations when doors keep closing around him. As Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in the mind of man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.”

Acts 16:6-10

And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God called us to preach the gospel to them.

Think about it: I’m sure that Paul spent a bunch of time praying about where he would go on his next mission trip, and he decided that Asia was going to be the destination. However, on his way to Asia, the Holy Spirit “forbid” them to speak the word in Asia. God clearly closed the door to Asia. Paul then attempts to go north to Bithynia to preach the word and again it says that the Spirit prevented them from going to Bithynia. Whether it was closed roads, political resistance, or illness, Paul was confident that God was directing him another way. Ultimately, God directed Paul to Macedonia where he would start the church in Philippi, who would be his greatest supporter. Paul understood Proverbs 19:21, “many are the plans in the mind of man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.” Even though the plans of Paul changed, God had a plan the whole time, and he was directing Paul by closing doors to a good ministry opportunity, while steering him toward one that was great. Sometimes we just need to hold our plans with open hands knowing that God has a purpose greater than our knowledge.

Take away: God uses closed doors as opportunities to direct you to his purpose.