Opportunities of Obstacles

Life is filled with obstacles. We can try to side-step struggles, but we inevitably find another arising to take its place. Even the very work of doing God’s will comes with challenges. We can’t think that just because we have given our life to the Lord we will never face pain or trials, but we can begin to think about those pains and trials differently. Do they make the future unclear? Praise God for His guidance. Do they make obedience painful? Praise God for His mercy and strength. Do they limit our abilities? Praise God for time to spend in prayer and worship. Whenever I struggle with my limitations, I remember Moses standing before the burning bush, complaining about his stutter. God replied, “Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” (Exodus 4:11-12) Sometimes it is the very limitation we fear that helps us understand and rely on God the most. Nothing happens to us without God’s permission, good or bad. Considering that Romans 8:28 reassures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose”, shouldn’t we then think of even our struggles as good? Though they may not feel that way in the moment, ultimately, they will prove to be. Whether they lead us to a place of greater understanding and peace or teach us a lesson we need for a future endeavor, they are part of God’s plan. My challenge to you today: See the obstacles in your life as opportunities to draw closer to your Savior. (Written by Keegan Harkins.)