Read: Acts 16:6–15
Having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia . . . we immediately tried to cross over to Macedonia, being convinced that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them. Acts 16:6 & 10
The Holy Spirit opens some doors while closing others. Paul had wanted to take the message of Jesus Christ to Asia, but he was prevented from doing so—a door closed. As one avenue was shutting down, however, a vision revealed that another avenue was opening up. Paul was supposed to bring the message and ministry of Jesus Christ to Greece—which he did with tremendous effect!
It is cliché to say “Whenever God closes a door, he opens a window,” but perhaps it is cliché because it is true. The door to Asia is shut so a window to Greece could be opened. A door to one job closes just as a window opens to your dream job. A seemingly ill-timed “no” can open the way to a perfectly timed “yes.” For Paul that was more than a T-shirt slogan. For Paul, the opening and closing of doors was the Spirit’s work, and it needed to be respected and followed.
What doors or windows are opening and closing in your life?
Lord, thank You for the many times that You have closed doors that might have led to my destruction . . . and thank You for opening windows and doors that have led to my salvation. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.