Divine Diversions

After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. (Acts 16:7) 
 
It can be difficult when we’re told “no” or “not now,” especially when we sense God has opened a door for us to serve others. Early in my ministry, two opportunities came my way where I thought my gifts and skills matched the churches’ needs, but both doors eventually closed. After these two disappointments, another position came along, and I was selected. With that ministry call came thirteen years of life-touching pastoral labors. 
 
Twice in Acts 16 Paul and company were redirected by God. First, they were “forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia” (v. 6). Then, “after they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not” (v. 7). Unknown to them, God had other plans that would be right for His work and workers. His no to the previous plans put them in a position to listen to and be confidently led by Him (vv. 9–10). 
 
Who among us hasn’t grieved what we initially thought to be a painful loss? We’ve felt wounded when we didn’t get a certain job, when a service opportunity didn’t materialize, when a relocation got derailed. Though such things can momentarily be weighty, time often reveals that such detours are actually divine diversions that God graciously uses to get us where He wants us, and we are grateful. 
 
What loss have you grieved only to be grateful that what you desired you didn’t get? How did the situation serve to bolster your trust in the Lord? 
 
Father, I praise You that in Your wisdom You know how to best arrange my life. Thank You for protecting me through Your detours. Amen. 
 
When I read this devotion I was reminded of Isaiah 55:8-9, For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Trust Him to protect you and guide you. He is faithful, always. Divine Diversions. 
 
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord! 
 
Today’s Reading is Proverbs 15:1