Acts 16:9-15

What amazing ways God employs to persuade us to follow! The book of Acts tells of Paul’s vision of a man in Macedonia who begs him to come and help. Although Paul and Silas conclude that God is calling them to Macedonia,  I can think of numerous undertakings I considered to be of my making before I realized that it was God’s idea all along.

For Paul and Silas, it begins with God’s vision. As with all healthy visions, God’s vision for our lives possesses a purpose greater than what we intend or imagine. We can read about Paul and Silas or about Joseph in the book of Genesis and discover that none of them knows exactly where God will lead them. Paul sees a man in need; Joseph, on the other hand, is a man in need. But for both, God had a much greater purpose. In each case, they had to decide to trust God.

The German theologian and martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “As a follower of Christ, I don’t always know where I going but I know I am following Jesus.” God casts a vision for our lives and persuades us to follow. Although it might be difficult to grasp God’s blessings in the midst of out realities, we must understand that God’s ways, though obscure to our apprehension, will lead us like Paul and Silas to God’s greatest gift of purpose for us and for those God has chosen to bless through our revelation.

Prayer

God of all, I know your ways are higher than mine. Help me see my way through your eyes. Remind me that my life is in your hands. As I grow certain of your love, let me be a blessing to others. In the name of Jesus I prey. Amen.