They passed through the Phrygian and Galatian region, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia; and after they came to Mysia, they were trying to go into Bithynia, and the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them; and passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. A vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing and appealing to him, and saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." When he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Acts 16:6-10
This passage from scripture is rich with God's wisdom. Paul and his companions have it in mind to preach the gospel in the Roman Province of Asia Minor, which is modern day Turkey. God says "no" and instead, through a vision, directs them to the region of Macedonia, across the Agean Sea. Paul wanted to win his local region for Christ, but God had a bigger plan; to send Paul and his missionary team to Europe and win an entire continent. What encouragement we can glean from this for those times when God closes a door. Trust Him and know that His hand is poised to open a bigger and better one.
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