“They passed through the Phrygian and Galatian region, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia; and after they came to Mysia, they were trying to go into Bithynia, and the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them; and passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. A vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing and appealing to him, and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” When he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” Acts 16:6-10
Paul was traveling and was given a block from Holy Spirit to not go to certain places. Then he was given a vision and felt called to go to Macedonia and wanted to go immediately with those with him.
Forbid – Strong’s G2967 – kōlyō – to cut off, cut short, to hinder, prevent, forbid
Vision – Strong’s G3705 – horama – that which is seen, a site, Spectacle, a site divinely granted in ecstasy or in sleep, a vision N
Help – Strong’s G997 – boētheō – to help kinda secure (assistance and support in times of hardship and distress) bring aid
This passage was preached recently at a women’s conference I attended. The speaker shared that there are times where God keeps us from things and reroutes us. At other times it is really the devil derailing us. They both may look the same, but we have to know the difference.
As I reflect on this passage, I can see that when answering God’s call He will keep us from going where we shouldn’t. We will understand that it is not the enemy but it is the hand of God. God will sometimes guide and direct us through visions at times. There can also be a sense of urgency in the call. Paul was surrounded by people who believed he had heard from God and responded with obedience immediately.
Sometimes I head in a direction and get a clear “no” from God. Surrender really is trusting God’s plan, timing, and wisdom above my own. It takes courage and trust. There are times I have had visions. I don’t always understand what they mean. Sometimes I take time to reflect and ask God for counsel and a deeper understanding, but I think too often I don’t take immediate action and things pass or I forget.
Not having people I do ministry with consistently makes that easier because there is not others jumping into action with me. When I have had people walking with me, I am more inclined to take the lead and get things done. I have also had God tell me not to do something, rather to get out. I vividly remember the dream. When I don’t obey, God moved me out in a way that I didn’t like.
As I meditate on this passage I know that I have to listen for God’s directions of when to start and stop, where to go, and how to get there. I can surrender to His voice. I recognize I need to work on the immediate obedience and building the support in ministry where God has called me. Although it is my personal walk, others should be walking with me in their own gifting. Paul didn’t marry but he also didn’t do life alone.
Lord thank You for showing me that sometimes “no” really is from You. Help me to have wisdom to understand when You give me a vision or a sign and to obey. Surround me with the people I can do ministry with.
Restoring Voice 
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