“If God wills.”

Acts 18:19-21, And they came to Ephesus, and he left them there, but he himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. When they asked him to stay for a longer period, he declined. But on taking leave of them he said, “I will return to you if God wills,” and he set sail from Ephesus.

Paul had very definite ideas about where he would go, and what he would do. And we know that he was always ready to preach the gospel, to give a reason for the hope that he had within him, as Peter says. We see here that he also knows who is in control, that despite his own desire, it is God who is in control. He recognizes His purpose and wisdom is far beyond our own. Do we recognize His sovereign will in all that we do?

Lead us forth in Your will, to accomplish all that You desire to do through us, O Lord!

ESV Lectionary