It has to be difficult for someone, called of God to His purpose, to find doors closing. One particular situation brought up the thought, but I know of many people who thought they were following God’s will for their lives, only to find doors slammed in their faces.It’s difficult for the layperson who loves God and is seeking His will, but it is more difficult for a layperson to watch a preacher, a missionary, an evangelist – one who has been dedicated to God for full time Christian service, come to a closed door.
As always, the Bible has examples for us. A good one is Paul. He had completed a missionary journey that was in all accounts successful. Now he was heading out for his second. He had every intention of carrying the gospel to Asia.
Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, (Acts 16:6 KJV)
God said “No.” Plans altered.
After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. (Acts 16:7 KJV)
God said “No.”
Paul complied. Then the new door opened.
And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. (Acts 16:10 KJV)
Reading from 16:1, watch the pronouns. “he”, “they”, third person designations. Here in verse 16:10, “we” were endeavoring to go into Macedonia. Luke, author of the book of Acts, joins with Paul, going through God’s open door.
I’ve had doors close. I’ve received lay off notices. Beloved Husband and I had to make life-changing decisions when doors have been closed. These are not unique experiences – they occur daily. Let me assure you, it is much easier making decisions with God’s help than to ignore what He plans.
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 KJV)
He has a purpose, and He will direct us.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:6 KJV)
That’s a very good verse for memorizing. Nice and short, and full of truth! Yet there are even better ones at the first of the chapter.
My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. (Proverbs 3:1-2 KJV)
Good advice for his son – better advice for those of us who wish for long life and peace. Open the door to God’s will.
Good thoughts...we've had doors close over the years too, and there have been times when the Lord has clearly directed the next step. There are also times when it's not been so clear, and that's when we wait...rather than getting ahead of God and walking through the wrong door.
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