5 When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. 6 But when they opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” Acts 18:5-6

It didn’t take long for those listening to Paul to tire of him. He was no longer reasoning with them, but preaching. In other parts of the Book of Acts, we see Paul returning to those who opposed him and preaching more. The Holy Spirit must have been telling him to move on. Paul added that he was now going to preach to the Gentiles!

It’s apparent that Paul was aware of his surroundings. He knew when to fight and when to leave. He knew when to “dust off his feet” and when to press in further. He had to rely on the Holy Spirit for this kind of guidance.

Today as you consider these words, think about how we’re guided. Do we rely on the Holy Spirit regularly? Do we pay lip service to Him every once in a while? Or are we pressing in daily to get our guidance?