We often find ourselves looking for directions. While in many places there are clear signs giving directions–to parks, places of interest, museums, etc.–in other areas, no such signs exist. The Bible provides many aids in finding directions for our lives. But often we wish for more concrete help in finding the Lord’s will. Paul looked for direction in Acts 21, as he prepared for action in the next step of his life.
First, he prayed (Acts 21:5). Often in the Scriptures, when confronted with something new or challenging, men of God prayed to God for help. Paul sought the Lord’s direction for his life. We too, need to bring our decisions before the Lord, so we might discern the right opportunities for us to follow.
Second, he sought fellowship with God’s people (Acts 21:7-10). Paul immersed himself in the worship and activity of the church. Whenever Paul came to a city, he looked for other believers and spent time in worship and service with them.
Third, he sought the counsel of fellow, godly believers (Acts 21:11-12). Agabus was a prophet in Paul’s time, who foretold Paul’s fate. He did not forbid Paul from proceeding, but he warned him what would happen if Paul went ahead as planned. Others may give us a perspective we had not seen or suggest consequences we had not thought about. Counsel may not always be what we would like it to be, but “in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). We should never make important decisions without consulting with wise Christians, some of whom may have already encountered similar situations as ours.
Fourth, Paul submitted to the Lord (Acts 21:13-14). He did not seek out the Lord only to ignore God’s help or God’s direction. He realized he was under the Lord’s command, so he came under God’s authority. He committed himself to do as the Lord willed, even though he understood that he would die as a result. He was indeed, “faithful unto death.”
Fifth, Paul was accountable to the church (Acts 21:17-19). Paul was not on his own–he reported to the Jerusalem church all that he had done, and the response of the Gentiles to the Gospel message. Not only the ministers, but every member is accountable to the larger body. We commit individually to Christ, but also, we commit to the upbuilding of the church, Christ’s body. Our decisions affect others, and we must keep them in mind when considering our options.
Paul did not depend on mere feelings when he made this major decision. He was about to embark on a long-term, highly committed adventure. But he did commit himself to see it through, no matter what. God gave him the perseverance necessary so that he could accomplish his purpose. Paul realized it was not about him, but about Him.
Craig Alan Myers, CBC Ex. Board
