Romans 1:9–13 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; 10 Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end you may be established; 12 That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. 13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.
There are times when God may prevent us from doing something we believe is good and beneficial for His kingdom because He has a different plan. In Romans 1:9-13, we see how the Apostle Paul intended to visit the believers in Rome to share spiritual gifts and strengthen their faith. However, Paul was hindered from making the journey.
Despite his disappointment, Paul understood that God’s hand was in the hindrance. Instead of visiting, Paul wrote a letter to the Romans, which has since become a vital part of the New Testament. This letter has blessed countless people over the years, showing that God’s plans are always for the greater good.
I encourage you to trust in God’s plans, even when your own are disrupted. When faced with unexpected changes, rejoice, knowing that God is at work and always has something good in store.
Devotional by Pastor Rod Holler, Sr.