Returning with Paul to Lystra, we find that a recent convert, Timothy, has blossomed into a highly regarded Christ-follower. This young man was to become as precious as a son to Paul for the devoted way he served (Philippians 2:19–24). But at this point there is a problem: the child of a mixed marriage, Timothy is not circumcised. His maternal heritage makes him Jewish, yet the omission (due to his father’s ethnicity, known in the region) of this ritual obedience would be an obstacle to his ministry among Jews. So Timothy takes on the custom, not as an obligation required for salvation, but to open opportunities to serve and strengthen the church.

Journeying onwards, the companions’ wandering is an encouragement to any of us who have felt like we are stumbling around in the dark, wondering which way to go. We don’t know how the Spirit restrained them (vs 6,7), but a ‘no’ is never easy to hear, especially when no other option is offered. How do you respond when God says no? For the disciples, these Spirit-given restrictions don’t mean a full stop. Instead, they attempt alternatives while awaiting positive guidance and, eventually, the closed doors lead to one startlingly wide open (v 9). Like them, let’s keep going, trusting God to weave every apparent dead end into the textured tapestry of his direction.