Verse: Acts 16:6-10
And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Thoughts
Have you ever felt a nudge from the Holy Spirit? Have you ever felt him nudge you to pray for this person, or talk to this person, or sign up to serve in this area? Or maybe a nudge with a new idea, or a warning to stay away from something or someone?
These nudges are often difficult to discern, especially as we are getting started. But the Holy Spirit still speaks to us like he spoke to Paul in these passages. It's inspiring to see how Paul doesn't question, but just follows God's lead, isn't it?
I don't know about you, but often when I feel a nudge from the Holy Spirit my first response isn't to obey. My first response is usually to doubt, and then to question. "Was that really God?" "Why would God nudge me to do that?" "What if that person doesn't want to talk to me?" "What if that idea fails?"
I wonder what would happen if we just decided to say yes more quickly and to trust God instead of our own understanding? I wonder how much richer and deeper life would become. I wonder what kinds of stories we would have of God working in our lives?
Take a moment in prayer today to address this issue in your life. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you more frequently and set your heart on listening!
Prayer
I pray that you would soften my heart Lord. Help me to be easily moved by your nudges.