I was reflecting on the last message I preached as pastor of the church plant. I spoke on the subject of conflict resolution from the perspective of how Paul and Barnabas separated and went different directions to spread the gospel due to a conflict over John Mark who was a relative of Barnabas. The conflict was not pleasant, but the divide actually furthered the cause of Christ. Paul, in the end of his life, wanted to see John Mark because he was profitable for ministry.
A few weeks later, I headed a different direction. Some of you fellow believers have foresight into seeing a change that might take place. I did not want to admit that I was sensing a change, but God was preparing me.
One thing I have learned – Do not suppress when God is giving you insight into the future. Let me make it clear that I am not a psychic. I cannot see into the future. God’s direction from the Scriptures, His Spirit, and godly counsel has helped me navigate through many seasons of life. I know it’s easier said than done, but trust His leadership even when you cannot understand it. If you can’t, work through it. God understands exactly where you are and is patient with you while you find the way.
Matthew Winters (Honest Thoughts from a Pastor) 
God can all !! we can test its power.
Amen!! This confirms where I am right now! Thank you, Matthew! 🙂
Excellent Pastor Matthew. I am especially thankful He is patient when I am delayed in moving forward.
Amen, Matthew! The Lord has often emotionally prepared me for things to come. It’s very prophetic. Most of the time I’ve just ignored it because it’s not what I wanted to hear, but those times I have managed to listen and obey, beautiful outcome. So I highly encourage you, trust in the Lord with all your heart and believe He really does work in mysterious ways. His plans are always going to be better than our plans.
We cannot see the future, but God is our guide. I was asked by several different people to approach the preacher with a suggestion about sermons or a Bible study on living the Christian life in hard times. After several people said the same thing and not knowing most preachers get angry when you make such suggestions, I brought up the subject with the preacher. He got in my face, and demanded why that topic might be necessary? I have no idea why I said it, but I said that a lot of people would soon lose their jobs and they needed to know how to handle that. The preacher had to prove me wrong. Managers above my level were asked. No, the major employer was adding employees. Forget layoffs. I moved out of town a year later. Six months after I left, the major employer went from 25000 employee to 11,000. Of course, that caused a ripple affect throughout the area. I had no information to say the layoffs would happen,but I think God guided my words. Also, I learned to never suggest a sermon topic.
Praise Jesus, amen!!!
Amen!!! God’s way is always the best way. Thank you for direction Jesus! Continue to bless my brother’s ministry in Jesus Mighty Name! Amen.