Acts 16:6-9
6 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. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 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.
Why would the Holy Spirit keep Paul from preaching in the province of Asia? This is a question that many have asked. I feel that there is a very simple reason for this. God's path was leading Paul somewhere else. God wants his word spread to all 4 corners of the earth but God also wants his followers to trust him and give full guidance of their lives to him.
The Holy Spirit may have kept Paul from preaching because the people of Asia were not ready at that time. When God called them to preach in Macedonia I'm sure the words they delivered spread throughout the region. This could have been considered a torch bearer to light the way for God's word to be shared in Asia.
God knew where he wanted Paul to be at the exact time he wanted him there. If Paul had preached in Asia would he be where God wanted him?
As Christians we need to listen to the Holy Spirit to guide us. We need to let the Holy Spirit lead us to where God wants us to be and to lead us to what God wants us to do.
Sometimes God may call you out of your comfort zone. Go to visit another congregation, go speak to people at the nursing homes, go spread God's word. Follow God with all of your heart and he will put you exactly where he wants you to be.
~Saved Outdoors Family