And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Acts 16:6-10
The clarity of call to preach in Macedonia is amazing. How the Spirit of God works in forbidding Paul and his companions from going into Phrygia and Galatia speaks to the sheer sovereignty of God in all things. I am so grateful for His plan, providence and provision as He works for His glory and our good.
Erin and I are much closer to a decision and we'll likely decide sometime next week and then sit on it between the two of us for a bit (having taken counsel from others to do this) to confirm it in our hearts. We are excited for what the Lord has in store and ask that those of you who read this would be in prayer for this very thing. Being a part of starting a new church is something I never would have even entertained years ago, but now it's where the Lord has us and we are passionate to see these things: God glorified, people enter into His joy through the proclamation and exposition of the Gospel, and for people to share that joy with others.
I remember listening to a talk by Sam Storms last year and he gave what I believe is a great definition for pastoral work. I leave you with it to pray for me.
"That by the grace of God I might lead, teach, shepherd the people of God into the enjoyment of God for the glory of God."
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