“..they..were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,” (Acts16:6)
Paul and Silas were sent out on a missionary journey in order to preach the gospel. Yet, the Bible says that they were “forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia.” The purpose of this devotion is not to discuss WHY the Holy Ghost forbad them; it is simply to remind you that there are times when God forbids us from doing something we are planning to do.
This week, my wife and I have been in Kentucky on a Missions Trip with the teens from our church. It wasn’t until the last minute that my wife and I realized we would have to go on this trip. To be honest, we had many other things we were planning to accomplish this week back at home. I had three sermons to study for, a Sunday School lesson to prepare, five devotionals to write, a Wednesday night message to preach, and possibly two funerals to take part in. It was shaping up to be a busy week and I needed every minute.
But, as this verse reminds us, God often has OTHER plans! Just as the plans Paul and Silas had were changed by God, I believe my plans were changed this week by God, as well. Not only have I been blessed by this trip, but I know of at least three “Divine Appointments” I believe God had for me! Not to mention something amazing the Lord did for us AFTER the VBS had ended, last night. That was a miracle all by itself! (I will share more about that this Sunday night at church.)
Even though Paul and Silas didn’t understand what God was doing, it was all a part of God’s plan; another part of the “bigger” picture that only God sees.
This week has reminded me once again that when circumstances beyond our control change, then we must trust that God (in His Sovereignty) has a better plan for us than the one we had for ourselves.
So, when God forbids you from accomplishing that nice little plan you have laid out for your life, just remember, He always knows best!