The Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard (1813–1855) wrote: “If I were
to wish for anything, I should not wish for wealth and power, but . . . for the
eye which, ever young and ardent, sees the possible.”
The apostle Paul saw some great ministry possibilities in his life
situations. He used the open doors God provided to witness for Christ. When he
was arrested in Jerusalem and appeared before Governor Felix, he used the
opportunity to proclaim the gospel (Acts 24:24). While he and Silas were in
prison, they shared the gospel with the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:25-34). And
later Paul used his imprisonment in Rome as an opportunity to encourage the
Philippian believers in their faith (Phil. 1:12-18).
In writing to the church at Corinth, Paul told the believers he wanted
to visit and spend some time with them, but that he needed to stay in Ephesus
because of an opportunity for ministry: “I will tarry in Ephesus until
Pentecost. For a great and effective door has opened to me” (1 Cor. 16:8-9).
And Paul also involved others by asking them to pray for open doors so he could
speak clearly about Christ (Col. 4:3).
Ask God to show you possible open doors of service. You might be
surprised at what you see.
God writes opportunity on one side of the door and responsibility on the other. (RBC)
