The verse we look at is from the Book of Acts 8:26. First, we read the verse in 3 versions.
As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, “Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (version NLT)
Then the Lord’s angel said to Philip, “Now go south from Jerusalem on the desert road to Gaza.” He left immediately on his assignment. (version TPT)
But an angel of the Lord said to Philip, Rise and proceed southward or at midday on the road that runs from Jerusalem down to Gaza. This is the desert [route]. So he got up and went. (version AMPC)
Philip was in a city in Samria when he was asked by an angel to go South into a less travelled road from Jerusalem to Gaza. Most probably this could have been in a dream, but it’s not necessary. Generally when the angel of the Lord appears it’s often stated so.
He did not know how far he had to go.
He did not know what he should do after he got there.
But that did not stop him from obeying.
He knew once he got there he would know.
And his faith filled obedience later as we see it, proved that he was doing the right thing. As he reached there, at once he saw a chariot of the Finance Minister of the Ethiopian Queen. We see the timing was perfect.
Philip was prompt to obey. He did not postpone or delay in obeying the angel’s instruction. Prompt obedience ensured that he saw the chariot which was passing that road. Any delay in obedience to the next day could have been a miss.
Some of us may question the angel’s instruction when we miss seeing the chariot due to delayed obedience.
We have this pertinent verse which conveys the point. Ref 2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight. (version KJV)
For we live by believing and not by seeing. (version NLT)
We also know that delayed obedience is disobedience.
“Without delay I hurry to obey your commands.” (Psalm 119:60 GNT).
We need discipline for doing today’s duty.
When we step into tomorrow, we will know what to do then.
As Philiph walked to the desert road, all by himself, he could have been distracted, but chose to be committed to the instruction. Being in the direction alone does not assure you the outcome. Not being distracted in the pathway of obedience matters.
In verse 29, we see the Holy Spirit direct Philiph to go along with the chariot. Then the [Holy] Spirit said to Philip, Go forward and join yourself to this chariot.
Ultimately we see the Ethiopian minister receive baptism. Whereas Philip disappeared from the scene and supernaturally appear miles away in Ashdod (Azotus) in an instant.
