Acts 16:6-10 The Macedonian Call

Paul, in his second missionary journey, sets out from Antioch, his sending church. In the beginning of his journey, he visits some of the churches he had already planted in his first journey. What catches my attention is that Paul went back to the place where he was stoned and left for dead. It is a display of courage. Would I have gone back to a place where I had been mistreated? I don't know, but I pray that God would grant me the same courage. Courage is not lack of fear. Courage is the ability to act in the face of fear. Courage is to say "no" to the paralysis that fear wants to impose. Courage is the "stuff" great men are made of. In history, courage has been the main ingredient of great things.

Obviously, Paul's plan was to go to Asia to preach the Gospel, but the Holy Spirit forbade it! Paul's plan was thwarted by the Holy Spirit's plan. I am sure that Paul had it all figured out before he set out on his journey, but he had to make adjustments and adapt to the Holy Spirit's direction. Paul is sensitive to the guidance of the Spirit, not wanting to impose his own plan, but willing to change his plans and adapt to the will of the Spirit. Personally, I'm a planner and don't do very well when someone tries to thwart my plan. But I must make room for the Spirit's guidance in the best of my plans. Am I willing to listen to the Spirit, even if it means setting aside my plans?

Now the Holy Spirit grants Paul a vision in which a Macedonian calls him to help. Paul shares his vision with the team and they all conclude that God called them to preach the Gospel to the Macedonians. Again, there is a sensitivity and a willingness to please the Spirit of God. Paul demonstrates a great desire to please God above all else, no matter the cost. The trip to Macedonia required an additional boat trip that he probably did not have in mind. Paul was willing to do whatever was necessary to please the one who called him. Am I willing to please God at all cost? Would I allow the inconveniences of a change of course to stand in my way of pleasing him?

It is important to note also that Paul was a team player and not a dictator. The response to the Macedonian vision was not just Paul saying they had to go there, but the language used is that of "we" and "us." The other members of the team understood the vision spoke to them as well. They worked together as a unit to bring the Gospel to the Macedonians. They did not resent Paul's vision, but they felt part of the calling as well. It is important to work as a team to achieve a synergy that leads to greater accomplishments than trying to work as a "lone ranger." God uses teams and teamwork.

Father, fill me with courage to lead as I answer your calling. Fill me with your Spirit and help me be sensitive to his guidance willing to trash my plans for yours. Grant me a heart that desires to please you above all things at whatever cost. Teach me to be a good team leader that moves others to fulfill your call as well.