Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there.
Acts 16:6-10 NLT
This is one of those passages that makes me wish the Holy Spirit had given a little more detail. They were on a big preaching trip, and they were told to “preach the Gospel to every creature,” but for some reason, the Spirit stopped them from preaching in Asia. They charge northward, only to be stopped again. Finally, God gave Paul a vision—the Macedonian call.
So how’d the Spirit stop them? Maybe it’s a prophecy? It doesn’t tell us. I think they probably had some long talks when they ended the day, asking each other if the Lord had spoken to anyone. Maybe they had some kind of internal “check.” “I’m not sure, Paul. North just doesn’t seem right.” If we’re honest, we all get that “icky” feeling in our gut. It’s the internal sense that something is off. Learning to pay attention to that inward witness is a key to spiritual success. In this case, the world is the mission, but no one can go everywhere. The question is always. “Among all the possible where’s, which where do I go to?”
Why not go to Asia or Bithynia? We don’t know the reason. God surely loves them just as much as He did Macedonia. That decision is above out pay grade. Our job is to stop when He says, “stop,” and go when He says “go.” He has reasons. The sojourn in Philippi turned out to be very fruitful. That group wound up being faithful supporters of Paul’s ongoing ministry (Philippians 4). It’s strategic location on a major trade route facilitated the spread of the Gospel throughout the region. God has strategies. He had people who were specifically equipped for a place in the next phase of His plan.
Each of us have lots of options as we move through our day. Maybe not concerning nations but surely concerning individuals and life situations. If we can learn to pay attention to the internal witness of the Spirit, He will help us avoid huge mistakes and lead us into places where opportunities abound. As you cruise through your day, pay attention. God will move you to the right spot, talking to the right person, with just the right word. Maybe even as you go into church today. You are on a mission. He has a plan. Follow it.
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