In our previous meditation, we noted that there are blessings for those who read, hear, and obey the written word. Still in that line of thought, I would love to add that one of the specific blessings from reading the word of God is guidance. I have a personal sentiment for today’s text. It was one of those confirmations I needed before the start of our ministry. Here, Paul obtained a new direction for his ministry. Two things are listed in the verse to confirm his new direction. First was his desire. For a very long time, he had wanted to visit Rome as he pointed out in Romans 1:11 – “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—” The word ”long” means desire. Note that God’s leading can come through desires. There are times when God would place certain desires in our hearts. At such times, the desires would remain unshakeable from our hearts.

God can guide us through closed doors as much as He does by open doors…When seeking guidance, prayerfully study the desires in your heart and the prevailing circumstances.

The second way from our text is that God guides us through closed doors. God can guide us through closed doors as much as He does by open doors. From where Paul wrote this letter, he observed that he had “no more place” in those areas. In other words, he had no more open doors for ministry. All doors are now shut. That, to him, pointed to a new direction. When seeking guidance, prayerfully study the desires in your heart and the prevailing circumstances.