Listen, Look, and Limit Not

As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, “Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.” [Acts 8.26]

Philip's example is clear: sometimes the Lord instructs His people to go places for reasons they may or may not know until they get there.

It is worth pointing out that Philip was obviously "clued in" however because as soon as he did, he was on the lookout for whatever reason it was that God had him go there!

So he started out, and he met the treasurer of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under the Kandake, the queen of Ethiopia. The eunuch had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and he was now returning. Seated in his carriage, he was reading aloud from the book of the prophet Isaiah. [Acts 8.27-28]

Philip knew that he knew this was his opportunity because the Holy Spirit made it clear:

The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and walk along beside the carriage.” [Acts 8.29]

It is also worth considering that in 8.26, it was "an angel of the Lord" that spoke to Philip. Contrast that to the verse above where it was the Holy Spirit Who spoke to Philip. While at first this might seem confusing, it really should not be. God is not limited in how He speaks to His people!

Philip's example is a good lesson for us all to listen to God, look for His work, and not limit Him (as if we could)!

Father, I want to listen to You, look for Your work, and not limit You. Do Your will in me.