When God gives us a green light, we must go. And when He gives us a red light, we must stop. ‘Paul and his friends went through Phrygia and Galatia, but the Holy Spirit would not let them preach in Asia. After they arrived in Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not let them. So they went on through Mysia until they came to Troas. During the night, Paul had a vision of someone from Macedonia who was standing there and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” After Paul had seen the vision, we began looking for a way to go to Macedonia…sure that God had called us to preach the good news there’ (v.6-10 CEV). After a series of green lights, God gave Paul a red light. Why? 1) Because the timing wasn’t right. Apollos had to go there first and lay the groundwork. 2) Because God needed Paul and Barnabas elsewhere. 3) Because God wanted them to be more seasoned before embarking on such a major mission. Notice the words, ‘They tried to go…but the Spirit of Jesus would not let them.’ It's so reassuring to know that God loves us so much that He'll save us from our own misguided plans. The Canadian preacher A.B. Simpson said: ‘Often there’s nothing as godly as inactivity on our part, or nothing as harmful as restless working, for God has promised to work His sovereign will.’ Today, God might be saying to you, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted’ (Psalm 46:10 NKJV). Please pay attention to Him!

What Now?

Whenever you’re stopped at traffic lights (as a passenger – don’t be distracted while driving), pray about three things: first, pray that you would obey any ‘red lights’ that God gives you in your life. Thank Him for His guidance in keeping you on the right track. (We’ll cover the other two points in the next couple of days.)