Divine Appointments

Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us. (Acts 16:11-15)

Every time God assigns a kingdom task, He makes sure it includes divine appointments. Connections you didn’t foresee or expect to happen occur, but because you were following the Holy Spirit's guidance, God brings you together.

Remember, Paul’s journey to Macedonia was not random or simply a short vacation. God gave him a vision, Paul was willing to follow it, and God arranged others to be part of it.

Paul met Lydia and her friends while they were praying by the riverside. I don’t believe it’s a coincidence that the first converts were people who were first devoted to prayer.

Acts 16:14 says that the Lord “opened her heart” to the message. That’s because she was already in the posture of prayer. Prayer enables our hearts to see things from God's perspective, not just our own feelings.

Now, Lydia wasn’t the only one saved. When she understood the revelation, she made sure her entire household believed and was baptized.Immediately afterward, she asked Paul to establish a church in her home. Her faith led to the formation of the first Gentile church.

Lydia’s story demonstrates that the move of God in Philippi started with a praying heart, an obedient response, and a willingness to partner with what God was doing.

Practical Application

When you follow God, He will also lead you to divine appointments. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to the people He places in your path who are called to support you.

Acts 11:14; Hebrews 13:2