This past Sunday at The Gathering Place, I asked our church family a question that’s been challenging me personally for weeks:
Will I obey the Holy Spirit today?
It’s simple—but it’s the question that can change the entire course of your day.
I don’t mean “Will I obey when it’s easy?” or “Will I obey when it fits my schedule?” I mean: Will I be open to the nudge of God’s Spirit, even if it feels uncomfortable? Even if it means changing my plans? Even if it costs me something?
This isn’t theory for me. It’s something I wrestle with daily.
You see, God laid it on my heart that this year at The Gathering Place would be one where we focus on spiritual, emotional, and even physical wellness. But wellness, real wellness, is more than self-help. It’s about being Spirit-led people who live out the life of Jesus in real, tangible ways.
Learning from Philip
We spent time Sunday looking at the story of Philip the Evangelist in Acts 8.
Philip was one of the early church’s deacons—chosen because he had a good reputation, was full of wisdom, and full of the Holy Spirit. He served faithfully, cared for the poor, and then—when persecution scattered the church—he didn’t retreat. He preached the gospel wherever he went.
He ended up in Samaria, a place most Jews avoided. Yet there, God used him to heal, deliver, and bring great joy to the city.
And just when everything was going well, the Holy Spirit said: “Go to the desert road.”
Leave the crowds. Leave the revival. Go to a lonely place.
And Philip obeyed. No questions. No delay.
On that road he met an Ethiopian official—someone marginalized, excluded from worship at the Temple, but hungry for God. Philip listened. He taught. He baptized him on the spot. And that encounter helped carry the gospel all the way to Africa.
All because Philip said yes.
Delayed Obedience is Disobedience
C.S. Lewis once said, “Delayed obedience is disobedience.”
That hits me hard.
How often do I feel the Spirit’s nudge—but hesitate? How often do I choose what’s safe or comfortable over what’s faithful?
Philip didn’t need the full plan. He didn’t need certainty. He just needed to say yes to the next step.
What About Us?
I want to exhort you as I’m exhorting myself:
Will you obey the Holy Spirit today?
Not someday. Not when you’re “ready.” Today.
- Will you speak up when God prompts you?
- Will you serve someone who can’t repay you?
- Will you take the risk to cross social or cultural barriers to show love?
- Will you leave your comfort zone to meet someone on their “desert road”?
Because someone’s story is waiting for your yes.
Let’s Be That Church
When I imagine the church in Acts, I see a people who loved Jesus deeply. Who prayed fervently. Who shared meals and resources. Who served their city. Who didn’t stop when plans fell apart, but kept going wherever God led them.
That’s the kind of church I want us to be.
Not just a place that meets on Sundays. A community of people who say yes to the Holy Spirit—every day, in every way.
Whether you’re new to church, exploring faith, or searching for a place to belong, The Gathering Place is a church in Palm Beach Gardens that welcomes you just as you are.
📍 4657 Hood Rd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
🕊️ Sundays at 10 AM
💬 Come as you are—there’s a place for you here.
Join us this week and experience the peace that only Jesus can give.