2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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OPEN DOORS NOT WINDOWS
LORD’S DAY, FEBRUARY 7
Acts 14:1-7
Colossians 4:2-4
“…that God would open unto us
a door of utterance, to speak
the mystery of Christ…”
OPEN DOORS NOT WINDOWS
The Lord had already instructed His disciples while they were under training that when persecution comes they must proceed to other places to continue their work. When God closes a door, He opens another. And when He continues to keep that door open, then stay. This is the joy in missions work. In spite of persecutions, every missionary has this confidence that wherever he is assigned by God, it is the best place for him.
Long period to preach: When they reached Iconium, the Lord gave them a new opportunity to preach, and many believed. The same principle applies here: “When God works, Satan also works!” The unbelieving Jews roused the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against Paul and Barnabas. In spite of the opposition, the Lord was pleased to allow Paul and Barnabas to stay longer to preach, give testimony and perform miracles.
More places to preach: Satan’s rage heightened as they remained and many more opposed them. When violence surged, they proceeded to Lystra and Derbe and continued to preach God’s Word there. This was truly under the direction of God, for out of these cities arose one of the most trusted disciples of Paul: Timothy.
The Lord alone opens doors for missionaries to enter. When we trust in this truth, we are not anxious, for the Lord directs the zealous evangelist to places where hearts are prepared to receive the gospel. Today’s approach of missions, which is dependent on surveys and so-called “windows” for evangelism, is humanistic. It does not rely on the Spirit’s leading but on man’s own estimation of where the best places are for missionaries to go. Are you applying the principles of the world in the church ministries you are involved with? Let us be reminded that spiritual works must be guided by the Spirit of God. It is not for man to determine where missionaries go, it is for God alone!
THOUGHT: Am I ready to follow wherever the Lord leads me?
PRAYER: Father, I praise Thy name for Thy longsuffering to usward.