Jul
2
2014
Trying To Thwart God’s Plan
Posted in Evangelism 4 Comments
A friend, who is an author, is speaking at an event next week.
She messaged me and asked me to come and hear her speak.
I was delighted to be invited by her.
I looked at my schedule to make sure the date was open.
This friend and I mutually encourage each other.
We both love the Lord and we both love words.
We have written many Facebook messages, liked each other’s pictures, but never met.
Yet!
Ironic, but true!
I knew the location of the event but needed to contact the organizer.
She gave me the cell phone number of the woman I was to call.
Knowing this was simply a formality I called the number.
A sweet voice on the other end informed me that she was not the person I was looking for.
I apologized and hung up.
Thinking that perhaps I had dialed incorrectly, I called again.
The same sweet voice answered the phone.
I apologized again.
I asked her if I had dialed the right number.
She assured me that I had indeed called the number that was given to me.
I have had this number for eight years and I am not the person you are looking for.
I messaged my friend.
She responded with another cell number to try.
This time I would be calling the area coordinator.
I tried this number, sure that I would be successful.
An older woman answered the phone.
She was not the person I was looking for.
I’m not used to these phones so I don’t know if you’re calling the right number or not!
She talked to me and told me her name; she seemed like she wanted someone to talk to.
I was going to message my friend again but had an idea.
I called the location where the event will be held.
I hoped that someone might know one of the two names I was given.
The man I spoke to could not connect me with either of those women.
He did however tell me someone else I should call.
I was a woman on a mission.
I was bound and determined to talk to someone connected with this event.
I called the number of the third woman.
Success!
We had a lovely conversation.
It will be a privilege to go to this event.
It will be a privilege to be a part of this ministry to women.
Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with women worldwide.
I couldn’t help but think of Paul, the apostle.
Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phyrgia 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 Bithinia, but the spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. During the night, Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. (Acts 16:6-10)
God the Holy Spirit directed Paul and his companions on their missionary journeys.
Go here.
Don’t go there.
The Gospel went forth as God determined.
The world would say that is simply coincidence.
Perhaps the weather deterred them.
Perhaps they just had a change of plans.
Not likely.
God directs.
God guides.
God leads.
God is an excellent Travel Director.
God knows where He wants His Word preached.
No plan of God can be thwarted.
The enemy can try to hinder the spread of the Gospel.
But he tries in vain.
…so is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:11)
Some may say that what happened to me today was inconvenient.
Some may have thought that it was too much trouble and given up after the first try.
Some may say those things.
I think differently.
I am led to go to this event.
I am led to go and encourage my friend as she speaks.
I am led to be part of the gospel going forth to women all around the world.
Going forth through words.
Spoken words.
Written words.
God’s Word.
Accomplishing His purpose His way.
Reaching the destination He determines through willing servants.
Not returning to Him empty, but rather, returning to Him full.
God could spread His Gospel any way He chooses.
God chooses to use us.
He doesn’t have to, but He does.
What a privilege!
Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:19,20)
Great message. So glad we were able to connect and you are able to attend. Can’t wait to meet you next week! Blessings!!
Michele
Michelle,
I am delighted that we finally connected.
It was a long, roundabout way to a great end!
We press on and pray for Billie’s message.
Looking forward to next week as well.
Gina
Great insight and written with reality checks we face! See you soon. He Reigns in All Things ! Love Billie
Thank you, friend.
Yes, see you soon…despite and because.
Gina