The Watered Soul

Finding Refreshment in the Word

Because the Good Thing Isn’t Always the Right Thing

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When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. Acts 16:7 (NIV)

The disciples had intended to go to particular region to spread the gospel but the Holy Spirit blocked them.  Spreading the gospel…now that seem like a good thing to do, especially since sharing the good news was a task given them. But their ability to go to that region was not hinder by some human but by the spirit f God.

Why would the Spirit stop us from doing a good thing? I can’t answer why certain places are off limits to us but what this passage does emphasize to me is the importance of being sensitive to God’s leading. There are many good things in which one can be involved and those good things can correspond to our particular personal assignment. Yet it might not be the right thing for us to undertake at a certain time, in particular place or with given person. RightThing

But don’t let the no not there stop us.

When the spirit intervened in their plan, Paul and his companions didn’t just sit there and stew and refuse to do their assignment.

How many times have we pouted and refused to complete an assignment because we couldn’t do according to our own plans?

Are there some good things you are doing but you are feel as if it might not be the right time?

 

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Comments

  1. Susan Wachtel says

    Hi Wanda,

    Some good things to ponder. When I encounter those road blocks put up by Holy Spirit, especially when it’s a good thing, I may resist His no or question it. Thanks for the reminder that I need to be more sensitive to the Holy Spirit and His leading.

    Blessings…Susan

    • Wanda says

      Sometimes I think we can think that resistance is from the enemy. At times we find it hard to believe that God wouldn’t want us to be involved in a “good” thing.

  3. LaVonne says

    Wanda, I was smiling as I read this because we have such a tendancy to go with our timing and our purpose and our way; ESPECIALLY when we think we are right or think we’ll get the right outcome. We have to learn to let some things pass until God makes them come to pass. Your words remind me of one of Peter’s great conversations with Jesus. Peter was the type who thought a betrayer had to be handled RIGHT NOW and he was just the man to do it! LOL! Peter was loved, but had a habit of asking those pestering questions: Peter turned around and noticed the disciple whom Jesus kept loving following them. He was the one who had put his head on Jesus’ chest at the supper and had asked, “Lord, who is the one who is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus told him, “If it’s my will for him to remain until I come back, how does that concern you? YOU MUST KEEP FOLLOWING ME!” – John 21:20-22. Peter and the disciples had to learn to follow God’s timing regarding Judas. We would be wise to stay “sensitive to God’s leading” or we may end up being very foolish.

    • Wanda says

      ” We have to learn to let some things pass until God makes them come to pass. “….love that. There are some things I “think” should be farther along but I keep having to remind myself about God’s timing. I know I don’t want anything outside of His will.

  5. Denise says

    Hi Wanda,

    Our own plans and relying on self often stops us from doing what God is leading us to do, even though we don’t always realize it! Worship, prayer, and just opening our hearts and listening to what He has to say is the best way for me to determine my day and the choices I will make. 🙂

    Great words written here Wanda!
    Denise

  6. Jennifer Richardson says

    Isn’t that the truth!
    I love how, even though we’re given a rough map,
    we’re also given a very personal coach and guide
    to follow.
    And even the map is to lead us deeper
    into His heart.
    Grateful news for a girl like me,
    who is pretty terrible with just a map:)
    Thank God we aren’t supposed to follow
    the good…..just God.
    love and thanks for this beautiful share,
    Jennifer