Follow His Lead

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. (Acts 16:6-10)

Something I’ve learned over the years is that, no matter how good your intentions are, if you're not in the place where God has directed you, you won't experience the success and anointing you should. Paul and his companions wanted to take the gospel to Asia, but the Holy Spirit prevented them. Jesus said, “Go into all the world…” but where specifically? Paul’s calling wasn’t for Asia at that time; it was for Macedonia. If God hasn’t sent you to a particular region, you won’t see the same fruit there. Obedience to location means obedience to your calling.

The Lord showed Paul a vision of a man in Macedonia who needed help. Paul and his ministry team didn’t delay or hesitate; they went right away to make it happen. Following the Holy Spirit’s guidance will lead you into blessings.

Paul’s decision to follow God didn’t just lead to one church. After the call to Macedonia, they established churches in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. Do you see how one Spirit-led moment of redirection sparked a regional move of God? What lasting impact could your next moment of Spirit-led obedience have?

Practical Application

Are you sensitive enough to the Holy Spirit’s guidance before you act? Take a moment to pray in the Holy Spirit and listen for Him when facing decisions, especially when it comes to change and direction.

Isaiah 30:21; Acts 18:23