“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 16:9–10, ESV)
Paul was a man guided by vision. Jesus appeared to him on the road to Damascus. It led to his conversion to Christianity and an incredible ministry that would span two continents.
In the verses above, Paul is given another vision from God. The vision was to preach the gospel to the people of Macedonia. Paul had no other option. The vision was what guided.
God continues to lead through vision. Maybe he has given you a preferred vision of the future towards which to strive. It might be a vision for your family, your church, your career, or your community.
What stirs your heart? Where is your passion? What possibilities excite you? You need it to burn within you. If it does not burn within, you are not going to push through when you meet resistance. If it is not compelling enough, you will not count the cost worth it. Anything that is right will require a fight. And if you are going to come to the destination, you will need the courage and determination.
Take time to pray over it. Ponder it. Journal it. Study it. Know where you are going before you start the journey. It is important to have the destination in mind. So many of us live busied and hurried but are going nowhere in particular. We are making great time, but are lost.
There is much that can be said for being patient to see God’s vision. To plan and prepare for the right time. It may not seem like you are making progress when seeking vision. But when the time comes to move, you will move faster and more efficiently than those without vision.
Reflection
- Where do you have God’s vision in your life?
- How do you take time to discover vision?
Prayer
Lord, as you guided Paul, guide me. Give me a vision of what you intend for me. Etch that vision in my heart. Make it part of my very being. Give me confidence in the calling. Give me the courage to face the challenges. Lead me where you will lead me. Amen.
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