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HELEN SANDERS
6-28-2022
A NEED DOES NOT JUSTIFY A CALL
There are many needs in the body of Christ, and there are many needs in the world. Do you remember when Paul was on a missionary journey. Paul took Timothy with him. He had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia. He desired to go into Asia because there was a great need there, but Acts 16:6 said, “6 … and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, 7, after they were come to Mysia, they assayed (tried) to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.”
There were many needs in both Asia and in Bithynia, yet the Holy Spirit said no. Just because there is a need does not justify a call to do something my friends. Many have failed because they were led by circumstances and not led by the Spirit.
Paul also warned the Centurion, when he was a prisoner on his way to Rome, what was to happen to the ship he was in. He told him in Acts 27:10 “…. Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.” This was a warning to not go because it was the wrong season. The winds would be contrary to “good sailing.” In verse 11 we see, “Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.”
The shipmaster was only interested in his “goods” on board and getting them delivered. There was a need to do this for sure, but it was not the right time to go forward. Paul warned them, they did not listen, and the ship was wrecked. Fortunately, when the storm that came up lives were saved because they listened to Paul when he told them to “lighten the load.”
We should always be led by Holy Spirit in every decision we make. I have seen Pastors put novices into positions they were not prepared for, and they burned out and left the church.
Again, just because there is a need does not mean we are called to fill the need or to do it. But if God has spoken to you by His Holy Spirit, then press into the promises of God and go forward.
Always be led by the inner witness of Holy Spirit. He will help you avoid the “shipwrecks” of life if you listen to His leading. If you do not hear anything then wait until you do.
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