Last week we looked at the contrast between the desire to have things go smoothly, as planned and without interruption versus the realization that interruptions and obstacles might actually be divine appointments that allow us to see God at work while ministering to others. We looked at a few examples from Jesus’ ministry in which he was seemingly interrupted by those in need. Now in the 2nd part we will examine some steps that we can take so that we are not caught off guard by opposition or any other surprise that might come our way.
To be led by the Holy Spirit, we must be sensitive and alert because many times the promptings are subtle and quiet. As Elijah discovered there can be a lot of distractions when listening for God’s voice. “After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.” 1 Kings 19:12 (NIV) You can be certain that there are forces at work that do not want you to hear God’s voice and his instruction. It takes practice to recognize and respond to the voice of God.
We must not be rigid in our agendas because even though we may think that we know where we are supposed to be going or even where we want to be going, it is important that we always be receptive new instructions from God. In Acts 16:6-10 Paul had the intention of preaching the gospel in Asia, but in verse 7 he declares “but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.” Instead of fighting against God, he continued on until one night there was a vision of a man from Macedonia who i, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” Because of this, Paul came to the conclusion that this is what God wanted him to do.
There is no doubt that some roads are more pleasant than others. When we hear the voice of God calling us to a pleasant place, we are less likely to question that we heard correctly than we would be when we are called to a place that requires sacrifice and hardship. Yet we should not be surprised because we have already been called to take up our crosses daily and follow Him. Regardless of the difficulties or obstacles that are on the road to which we have been called, it is far better to be on that road with God than to be on some other road and be running away from Him. We must adjust our hearing to His voice. ‘Though the Lord gave you adversity for food and suffering for drink, he will still be with you to teach you. You will see your teacher with your own eyes. Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, “This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left.’ Isaiah 30:20–21 (NLT)
It should not be surprising that a way with great potential will also have great opposition. “There is a wide-open door for a great work here, although many oppose me.” 1 Corinthians 16:9 (NLT) In the end, it is not so much whether we are on a smooth path or a road filled with obstacles and danger. The only thing that really matters is to be right where God wants us to be.