(V.5)"And so were the Churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.(v.6)Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the Word in Asia,(v.7) After they were come to Mysia they assayed to go into Bithynia:but the Spirit suffered them not.(v.8) And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.And a vision appeared to Paul in the night;there stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying , Come over into Macedonia and help us.(v.10) And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that The Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.(v.11) therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;(v12)And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony:and we were in that city abiding certain days."
What does it mean to be 'established in the faith'? We can deduce from this that there were a majority of fervent believers in the Churches who were exercising their faith for the impossible, from the God of the impossible! They were living in the realm of miracles and the favour of God, amidst all the adversity the enemy could throw at them! How many Churches are increasing in number daily?!When compared to the N/T standard , many Churches are falling short of all that God has planned for them.The keys of prayer and fasting have been lost or laid aside, for more 'modern' solutions! God can stop you as well as motivate you, if your heart is fully committed to doing His will. He will always replace a thing with something better.Praise His Name!The Vision was clear and relevant.There are many 'visions' which should only be on television! You see, we serve a Mighty God , Who is not restricted or limited in His ways or means of communicating with us. Are we open to God enough to receive His various methods of guidance.Don't worry, you wont 'miss it', if your motivation is for His Glory. To abide means to stay awhile.Let's abide with Him, as the old Hymn says, and absorb His Presence into our spirits, in order to live a life worthy of His Calling.May The Lord Bless you.