February 26, 2009 - Acts 8:27a

“So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians.” Acts 8:27a.
Philip had received instructions from God through an angel to travel from the Samaritan city that he was in to the desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. So he left as soon as he could and made his way toward Gaza. As he traveled along, he met an important official from the Ethiopian queen’s court. This eunuch was in charge of the whole treasury for the queen. He was an important person in Ethiopia.
As I think about this verse, what strikes me is that it was as he was “on his way” to following through with the instructions given to him, that Philip met the eunuch. It was as he was going – and, remember – at that point, Philip did not understand that meeting this man was the reason for this trip. He was not particularly certain why he was traveling the desert road, other than it was what God had told him to do. On his way – as he journeyed – he began to see God’s plan for him unfold and open up before him.
Many times in the past, I failed to move forward because I did not have the whole picture. And, because God had not unfolded it before me, I chose to wait, instead of moving forward. I have since learned, in my journey, that it may not be clear what is to happen next. What I do need to appreciate is that God unfolds situations before me as I step out in what I believe He would have me do. He steers me as I go, letting me know when I need to turn one way or the other, or to turn around all together. I do not need, indeed I most likely will not receive, the full, clear picture before stepping out.
Questions to consider: Have you ever not moved forward because you did not know the full picture of what was to happen? Are there any opportunities that the Lord opened up to you that you did not take advantage of because of waiting?
Prayer: Father, help me to step out and be “on my way” when I sense You calling me forward, even though I do not know the whole picture. Help me trust You to make it clear while I am on the journey. Amen.