Becoming a Savvy FollowerPrøve

SAVVY FOLLOWERS During Paul’s second missionary journey, he planned to preach the good news of Jesus in Asia and Bithynia (both are part of what is today western Turkey), but he didn’t go to cities in either region. Why? Because Paul was a savvy follower, accustomed to seeking the Lord’s guidance and following the Holy Spirit. In both attempts, the Spirit turned Paul and his companions away, instead leading them to Macedonia (Greece). Would sharing the gospel in those places have been a bad thing? Is there a city in the world that doesn’t need to hear the good news of Jesus? Why was it not the right time for Paul to travel there? We can ask so many questions and not understand the answers. The question you should ask is, am I willing to follow the Lord anywhere, anytime? Even when it doesn’t make sense, will I trust God? You cannot trust someone you don’t know. You cannot follow someone you’re not close to. Like Paul, savvy followers of Jesus immerse themselves in the words, teachings, and ways of Jesus in order to learn to hear God’s voice and follow the Spirit. The primary way to do this is through reading the Bible and prayer. For all of us who have free and unrestricted access to God’s Word, there is no substitute and no excuse. Ask Yourself: -What has God spoken to you through His word this week, and what are you doing about it? -What decision are you facing right now that requires God’s unique perspective, and how will you seek Him? Pause to Pray: Praise God that He has given us His Word and His Spirit. Ask Him to give you a heart and mind ready to receive and follow Him in all His ways. Challenge: Read and meditate on Psalm 19 for several days in a row. Invite God to fill you with renewed love and hunger for His Word. Look for additional “Becoming” reading plans: Savvy Follower, Intentional Friend, Embedded Influencer. Find more resources at [ www.whoisgrace.com/READ ](http://www.whoisgrace.com/READ) .