The Macedonian Call and Lydia's Welcome

Paul and his companions travelled through Phrygia and Galatia, but the Holy Spirit prevented them from speaking the word in Asia. When they came opposite Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not allow them. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas.

During the night at Troas, Paul saw a vision. A man of Macedonia stood there, begging him to come over and help. After Paul saw the vision, they immediately sought to go to Macedonia, understanding that the Lord had called them to preach the good news there.

They set sail from Troas and went straight to Samothrace. The next day they came to Neapolis, and from there they went to Philippi. It was a city of Macedonia, a leading city of the district and a Roman colony, and they stayed there for some days.

On the Sabbath, they went outside the city to the riverside because they supposed there was a place of prayer there. They sat down and spoke to the women who had gathered. One of the listeners was Lydia, a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, a woman who worshipped God.

As Paul spoke, the Lord opened Lydia's heart to listen carefully. She and her household were baptised. Then she urged the travellers to stay at her house, saying that if they judged her faithful to the Lord, they should come and stay. She persuaded them. Where do you notice God's guidance and Lydia's welcome in this story?