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Read: Acts 16:6-10
Listen:
Acts 16

Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.  When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. Acts 16:6-7

Paul’s missionary journey to Thessalonica is rife with unexpected challenges. From the journey’s beginning, the unexpected occurs. His team disbands over internal arguments. Paul attempts to enter Asia, but the Holy Spirit prevents him. He tries another region, but again, Jesus turns him away. Paul could feel discouraged but remains confident of God’s constant presence. Finally, he receives a vision of a man in Macedonia, the province of Thessalonica. The man begs Paul to come and help them. Although it goes against Paul’s plans, he heads to Thessalonica with confidence that God has called him there.

A life of faith is not exempt from unexpected roadblocks and reroutes. We may move from job to job expecting our career to launch but finding it stalls instead. We may submit offer after offer for a new home only to get outbid and still be renting. We may explore every avenue toward parenthood but still await a precious child. Circumstances will not always meet our expectations, but God is with us in the unexpected. The success of our plans is not the barometer of God’s presence in our lives. He walks with us when life doesn’t go according to plan. Unshakable faith expects God in the unexpected.

TODAY: Take a moment to reflect on a past situation that disappointed or confused you. Invite Jesus to show you how he walked alongside you during that event. Then, join the Ada Bible Worship team as they sing “You Keep Your Promises.”


JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Daniel 5-6. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider how Daniel was unjustly accused and sentenced to death and how Jesus was also innocent and sentenced to death on our behalf.