What does Paul's travel plan reveal about flexibility in serving God's mission? Setting the Scene 1 Corinthians 16:6: “and perhaps I will stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey wherever I may go.” What We Hear in Paul’s Words • “Perhaps” marks openness—Paul plans, yet leaves room for God’s adjustments. • “Stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter” shows willingness to lengthen the visit if the Spirit directs. • “So that you can help me” keeps the mission communal; flexibility does not erase partnership. • “Wherever I may go” highlights readiness for new assignments as God reveals them. A Pattern of Flexibility in Paul’s Life • Acts 16:6-10 – The Spirit blocks Asia, then opens Macedonia; Paul pivots immediately. • Romans 1:10 – He prays “that by God’s will I may now at last succeed in coming to you.” • 1 Thessalonians 3:1-2 – Plans modified to strengthen believers. • These moments form a tapestry: firm commitment to the gospel, loose grip on personal itinerary. Anchors That Keep Flexibility from Becoming Aimlessness • Clear Mission – 1 Corinthians 9:22-23, winning people to Christ. • Dependence on the Spirit – Galatians 5:25, “let us follow the Spirit.” • Humble Acknowledgment of God’s Sovereignty – James 4:13-15, “If the Lord wills.” Lessons for Today’s Servants • Make plans prayerfully, then hold them lightly. • Expect God to redirect; view changes as divine appointments, not detours. • Keep relationships central; ministry flows through people, not just programs. • Measure success by obedience to God’s unfolding will rather than by sticking to our original schedule. |
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