Sermon Recap+ Feb 15, 2026

We've all heard the saying "When God closes a door, He opens a window." While this familiar phrase contains truth, it represents just one of many ways God communicates His will to us. Today, we'll explore how God speaks to us through multiple channels, inviting us to expand our understanding of divine guidance beyond simple doors and windows.

The Limitation of Door-and-Window Thinking

The concept of closed doors and open windows isn't wrong—it's simply incomplete. When we limit ourselves to this single framework, we risk missing the rich variety of ways God actively communicates with us. In Acts 16:6, we see Paul and his companions "having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia." This appears to be a classic closed door situation, but the story doesn't end there.

Three Ways God Communicates His Will

The Closed Door Method

Sometimes God does close doors to redirect our path. Paul experienced this when the Holy Spirit prevented him from preaching in Asia. However, a closed door doesn't mean "no"—it often means "not yet" or "look elsewhere." The key is understanding that obstacles don't necessarily indicate God's absence or disapproval.

The Spirit of Jesus

Acts 16:7 mentions something unique: "the spirit of Jesus did not allow them" to go to Bithynia. This phrase refers to the memory, teachings, and example of Jesus guiding our decisions. Just as we might ask "What would Jesus do?" the early Christians carried His spirit—His teachings and character—as a guide for their choices.

Think of it like remembering a beloved grandparent's wisdom. Their "spirit" continues to influence us through their teachings, values, and example. Similarly, the spirit of Jesus encompasses His teachings, His character, and His way of approaching situations.

Divine Visions and Dreams

The third method appears in Acts 16:9, where Paul receives a vision of a Macedonian man pleading for help. Interestingly, when Paul arrives in Macedonia, he doesn't meet a man—he meets Lydia, a woman who becomes instrumental in establishing the church there. This teaches us that even clear visions from God may unfold differently than we expect.

Why Closed Doors Don't Mean Failure

Biblical Examples of Persistence Through Obstacles

Consider Moses, who faced ten closed doors (the ten plagues) before Pharaoh finally released the Israelites. The Apostle Paul was repeatedly imprisoned and persecuted, yet continued his ministry. These examples show us that obstacles often precede breakthrough, not defeat.

A Personal Immigration Story

Sometimes our greatest redirections lead to our greatest blessings. When in 2006 I requested a religious visa application (R-1) the whole thing was denied and yet what appeared to be a closed door actually led to seminary education, deeper preparation for ministry, and eventually citizenship through marriage. The "no" wasn't final—it was redirectional.

How to Recognize God's Communication

Open Your Eyes When You Pray

Instead of always praying with closed eyes and bowed heads, consider praying with your eyes open, looking up. This physical posture can remind us to watch for God's guidance in our circumstances, relationships, and opportunities.

Pay Attention to Multiple Channels

God knows your unique language and how to communicate effectively with you. He might speak through:

- Circumstances and timing

- The wisdom of trusted mentors

- Biblical principles and teachings

- Dreams and visions

- The counsel of other believers

- Inner peace or unrest about decisions

Understanding God's Unlimited Communication

God Speaks Your Language

Just as a loving grandparent knows exactly how to connect with each grandchild uniquely, God understands your personality, experiences, and needs. He communicates in ways that resonate specifically with you.

The World as God's Canvas

God doesn't exist merely between doors and windows—He owns the entire world. We're called not to own the world, but to serve it as Jesus did. This broader perspective helps us see God's guidance in every aspect of life, not just in dramatic moments of decision.

Moving Beyond Epiphany Season

The season of Epiphany reminds us that God continues to reveal Himself to us. Just as the wise men received divine guidance to avoid Herod and Joseph was warned to flee to Egypt, God still provides direction for our lives. The transfiguration shows us that God continues to reveal His true nature and will to those who seek Him.

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to expand your understanding of how God communicates. Instead of waiting only for obvious open doors or accepting closed doors as final answers, actively look for God's guidance through multiple channels.

Questions for Reflection:

1. How might God be speaking to you through the "spirit of Jesus"—His teachings and example—in a current situation you're facing?

2. What closed doors in your life might actually be redirections rather than rejections?

3. When you pray this week, what do you notice when you pray with your eyes open and looking up rather than down?

4. How can you better recognize God's unique way of communicating with you personally?

Remember that having trouble ahead doesn't mean God isn't on your side. Open your eyes to see how God continues to build you up to do His will, even through challenges and setbacks. God continues to love you, care for you, and speak your language in ways that are perfectly designed for you.