WHEN DOING GOD’S WORK IS INTERRUPTED
Acts 16:4–15
Do you know how to play chess? While waiting for a haircut recently, I watched two people pass the time by playing the game. The owners had provided a board and pieces for the patrons to enjoy. I have never taken the time to learn chess, and I do not know its rules or goals. I can tell you it seems like a lot of thought is involved and that planning ahead is crucial for success. Those I have observed playing chess seem patient and intelligent. Neither of the two gentlemen I watched that day seemed to be in a hurry, but the thing that impressed me the most is the strategy chess appears to require.
Even with the keenest intellect and the most meticulous planning, things can change unexpectedly, requiring us to adapt and adjust our original plans. The same is true while working for and serving the Lord. What we may see as an interruption is actually His guidance. He knows best, and His timing is perfect.
It’s encouraging to see how God is working through us. (4–5)
At this point in the Book of Acts, we join Paul as he is fully engaged in his missions work. His goal of strengthening and encouraging the churches reflects the main theme throughout his entire ministry. His message had a mission, and his passion had a purpose. By sharing proper doctrine with the churches, he could have the assurance they could know and practice the Word of God accurately.
If you desire stronger, more biblical communities, you must have churches committed to teaching and practicing God’s Word. Paul understood the preeminence of the gospel in all we do as Christians.
God can change the course of even a productive ministry. (6–10)
Things were going well for Paul, and God was blessing his work. If you were to list all the places Paul visited for the sake of the gospel, it would be a long list. Paul understood that his life and ministry belonged to God, so he would do as God directed. The Holy Spirit kept Paul from continuing his missionary work in Asia.
Paul did not argue with God or disobey. He knew that when God spoke, His way was the best way. Even though we do not fully understand the doors God may close, we can be assured it is for our good and His glory.
An interruption could be God’s way of opening a new avenue of ministry. (11–15)
What we might see as detours or delays, God can use to display His purposes. He has an eternal, broad perspective that we cannot fully grasp.
With Paul’s new assignment, we are introduced to Lydia, a devout woman who led her family to faith in Christ and was a blessing to the Church’s missions work. By opening her home to Paul and others, she shared the love of Christ through hospitality, encouraging everyone who knew her.
One of the many blessings of the ministry God calls us to is that we are never without opportunity. Like a skilled chess player, you may be using strategy to figure out what to do next.
The most important thing to remember is that when God picks you up and moves you, be grateful. You are one piece of many in the world and victory is guaranteed.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
