Listen, Go, and Speak

SCRIPTURE:
Acts 8:29-30 NLT - The Holy Spirit said to Philip, "Go over and walk along beside the carriage." Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?"

OBSERVATION:
In Acts chapter 8, the persecution of the early church was in full force, led by Saul. The persecution was so intense that all but the apostles fled Jerusalem. Yet God used this persecution to spread the gospel through men like Philip.

Philip went to Samaria—a shocking choice, since Jews had nothing to do with Samaritans. Even Jesus’ disciples were surprised when He said, “He needed to go through Samaria.” Most Jews went around it, but Jesus went through it—and Philip followed His example.

Revival broke out in Samaria, and the Lord used Philip mightily. But suddenly, the Holy Spirit said, “Go.” Not only “Go,” but “Go south”—into the desert. Why would God send him from a fruitful place to a barren one? Why leave a thriving ministry for one person? Because God wasn’t just leading Philip—He was also leading the Ethiopian. It was a divine appointment.

APPLICATION:
Years ago, during a mission trip in Mexico, a missionary shared a story about a friend who had a similar experience. While eating breakfast at a restaurant counter, he suddenly felt the Holy Spirit say, “Go and stand on your head by the jukebox.”

Confused, he ignored it—three times—until, after praying, he finally decided to obey, even though it seemed foolish. He stood on his head by the jukebox, embarrassed, then quietly returned to his seat. Moments later, the man beside him began to weep. When asked if he was okay, the man said he had been praying all morning for God to reveal Himself—and had prayed, “God, if You’re real, have someone stand on their head by the jukebox.”

Both men were stunned.

• Are we willing to go where the Spirit leads—even if it means leaving comfort or reputation behind?
• Are we willing to do what He asks—even when it doesn't make sense?
• Are we willing to speak when He opens a door—even if it begins with a simple question, like Philip’s?

Sometimes all someone is waiting for is a question or a word prompted by the Spirit. Listen to the Spirit’s leading. Go where He directs. Speak when He says to speak. You never know what miracle God is preparing.
 
PRAYER:
Jesus, help me listen, go, and speak—even when it feels unorthodox or uncomfortable. I know You lead only through open doors. Give me sensitivity to Your Spirit and boldness to act in faith. When I fail, remind me of Your grace and strengthen me to keep listening, going, and speaking for You.