When God Changes Our Plans: Lessons from Acts 8 and a Rainy Camping Trip

Embracing a Change of Plans: A Lesson in Faith and Flexibility

A change of plans is often disappointing. When I was a child, the Sunday School class I belonged to was preparing for an overnight camping trip. Excitement filled my every thought—until I saw the rain.

Saddened by the possibility that our adventure might be canceled, I sat under the carport and daydreamed. I may have even whispered a prayer or two, asking God to change the weather so a group of 8 to 10 boys could go camping.

Surprisingly, the skies cleared just enough—and off we went. After a 60 to 70-mile ride in the back of a pickup truck with an old-fashioned topper, we arrived at our campsite. Joy filled our hearts as we anticipated a night under the stars.

But then, the rain started again.

Did we head home? Did we give up and retreat to our cozy, dry beds? No! We found a nearby barn filled with empty hay trailers—dusty, quiet, and perfect for shelter. As the rain danced on the metal roof, we spent the night telling stories, playing made-up games, and embracing the unexpected. We adapted to a change of plans—and had a wonderful time.

God Often Redirects Our Paths

Jesus sometimes changes our plans—especially when we are obedient to Him. As Christians, even when we stray into temptation or distraction, the Holy Spirit gently nudges us back on course.

In Acts 8:26, we read:
“Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, ‘Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.’”

Philip was nudged, encouraged, and directly instructed to change his course. And because he listened, verse 27 tells us he met an Ethiopian eunuch—an influential official serving Queen Candace of Ethiopia.

This was no chance meeting. History records that one of the earliest Christian churches was established in Ethiopia. Philip’s obedience led to a pivotal moment in the spread of the Gospel.

Start Where They Are: Sharing the Gospel Effectively

We never know who God may place in our path, but like Philip, we must be ready. We read in Acts 8:31:
“Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.”

Philip didn’t ask the eunuch to look up other scriptures or reference a different translation. He started where the man was—right in the passage he had been reading.

When God calls us to minister, we don’t need to elevate others to where we are spiritually. We simply need to meet them where they are and introduce them to Jesus.

Final Thoughts: Faith, Flexibility, and Obedience

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. But sometimes, the best moments happen in the detours. Whether it’s a camping trip in a barn or a divine encounter on a desert road, God uses these moments to shape us and advance His kingdom.

Let us be like Philip—willing, obedient, and ready to share the good news, no matter where the road leads.