We see a very interesting passage here in which time and again, Paul and his companions try to go to different places, and each time are told no by the Holy Spirit.
Finally, after probably more than a few days and perhaps weeks of frustration, Paul received a vision of a man from Macedonia saying,
Come over to Macedonia and help us. (Acts 16:9)
At this, they immediately made plans to leave for Macedonia.
What can we learn from this? It’s so easy for us to go about here and there doing what we think is God’s will, but instead we find obstacle after obstacle and end up in utter frustration.
What’s the problem? Many times we’re not doing God’s will. We’re doing our own will in God’s name.
So what should you do if you’re finding yourself frustrated in ministry? Take a step back. Seek God. Stop saying, “God, please bless what I’m doing.”
Instead, pray, “God show me what you’re doing and how I can join you in your work.”
And as you seek his will, he will make it known to you.
How about you? Are you truly doing God’s will? Or are you simply doing your own will in his name?
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 