There have been times in my life when I have wished that God would have given me a play by play book for my life. For instance, "On May 3, at 3:17 you are to go to Wal-Mart and buy underwear." It seems that would be much easier. However, it would not require much faith would it? Nor would it really test our obedience.
In Acts 8 (one of my favorite chapters), Philip is told by an angel of the Lord to "Go South on the road - the desert road - that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." That's it . . . that's all the instruction he was given, and yet, he went. Philip made himself available. According to the Scripture, we was not told why to go in that direction, who he was to meet, where he was to buy underwear. . . that was it. In his faith and obedience he went. And along the way he met an Ethiopian eunuch who was on his way home from Jerusalem.
The Spirit then told Philip to "Go to that chariot and stay near it." Had Philip not made himself available to the leading of God he would not have seen this chariot. Often times, we are not given the full vision of where God is leading us. Many times it is a step by step faith process.
Step 1: Go South
Step 2: Go to that chariot
Step 3: Philip knew what to do next
As the story goes on, Philip is able to share the good news of Jesus Christ with this eunuch and even baptize him. After the baptism, Philip is taken away. His mission here was accomplished.
Philip was never given a play by play, daily calendar of events. He just stepped out in faith and went south. All because he made himself available to the leading of the Spirit.
If only we would be more faithful and obedient to do what God is calling us to do. Even though we do not know every detail of His plan we must learn to trust him for the direction He gives us today.
*Picture taken from http://bibleencyclopedia.com/pictures/Acts_8_Philip_and_the_Ethiopian_eunuch.htm
This type of obedience is still being done today. Last Saturday I was spending the morning resting and worshiping. I felt as if the Lord asked me to walk to the corner of the street near the market and stand at the corner. After taking a few minutes to get ready, I went. I responded to the Lord, how about if i stand there for 30 seconds. We settled on 45 seconds. So I did. I ended up standing at the corner for 1 minute. Then I figured since I was out, I would take a walk. So I walked around the neighborhood, and on my way back I got to an intersection. I looked over at 2 guys at a bus stop, and I was instructed again. Go share the gospel. So I did. One guy was hardened against anything to do with God, but the young man (15 years old) was much more receptive. I shared with him why Christ died and just how much He loves him. The bus came and went. He stayed there and listened. He said his mom was a christian, but his dad was not. God sent me there in response to his mom's prayers. He had perfect timing for this divine appointment. What's more, Sunday a friend of mine said "I saw you sharing the gospel with a kid yesterday". It turns out he was on the bus that passed by. This kind of experience can be normal if you're heart is to love people and share the Gospel with them. You may not be 'transported' to a place, but God will use a willing vessel. Bless all who read this.
ReplyDeleteWOW! What a great testimony. It is always amazing to see the things God does through His children. Thank you for your willingness to be obedient.
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