Living With Purpose on PurposeSample

Facing a “closed door” is confusing and frustrating. The apostle Paul experienced both of these feelings on his second missionary journey to Asia. He was sharing the gospel and repeatedly found the next step blocked by the Holy Spirit. God prevented Paul and his team from preaching the Word. (Acts 16:6-7) Paul and Silas traveled on and again “the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there.” You might think this is a strange strategy, but the very night their path was blocked, God met Paul with a vision of a man asking him to come to Macedonia in northern Greece to help the team. Paul left at once to go there and “concluded that God was calling him to preach the gospel there.” (Acts 16:10) Instead of getting angry or trying to force his way into new territory, Paul got on his knees. When thinking about our purpose, we sometimes get confused and need clarity. When you have faith and are willing to let God take the lead position, He will take you to where He wants you to serve. There are days when I question God and think He’s taking me on the scenic route, but I’ve learned to have patience and let Him do the leading. I give over control and allow God’s Word to give me clarity. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a huge encouragement. The Message version breaks these verses down and puts it into simple terms: “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God!” This advice is very clear! When an opportunity is blocked, God has a reason. He provides love and protection, even in your disappointment. When one door has closed, a greater one is about to open. Be wise and watch for it. You only need to trust, listen, obey, and allow God to take lead. Don’t lean on your own understanding. God has all the details worked out according to the purpose He’s put inside of you to accomplish. Paul left to go on what seemed like a detour at the time, but because he listened and trusted God, many people heard the gospel.