Acts 16:6 says, “Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.” Can you remember a time in your life when you KNOW that the Lord prevented you from going somewhere or doing something? Spoiler alert: In the Apostle Paul’s situation, the initial closed doors in the east and north were only preparing him for the right open door to take the good news of Jesus Christ into the west. Friends, what if we saw every closed door as definite progress toward the right door? My encouragement is that we would not try to pray unsolved problems or unresolved tension away because, in fact, these pressure points or seasons of tension are often guiding us toward God’s good and perfect will for our lives. Obviously, there are always exceptions. However, if this were our mindset the majority of the time, we would be much more likely to see God’s hand in the midst of our most difficult seasons and ultimately, the victories will be that much more fulfilling. This morning, no matter what awaits your day, let’s decide right now that we are going to walk in faith instead of in despair. Stay Close to Jesus. – Pastor Bryce
