These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (NKJV)
We all will face obstacles in our lives from time to time. The prophet Nehemiah is an example of one who faced many obstacles in his desire to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem (Neh. 2:10-20). The word obstacle means: a thing that blocks one’s way, or to prevent, or hinder progress: mentally, physically or spiritually. Nehemiah’s story shows us that whenever we want to achieve something great, there will always be obstacles we will have to face. With God’s help, the impossible becomes possible.
People Will Try to Hinder Us
In Nehemiah’s case, his enemies tried to discourage him from doing God’s work in rebuilding the wall. Nehemiah 2 shows the many attempts made to stop the process in building the wall. He did not attempt to do everything alone, he had a plan, asked the people to work in groups, and organised them in such a way to complete the work faster and to protect the city, cf. Neh. 3:1-4. Nehemiah shows us how much more we can get done when we face life’s obstacles one step at a time. Nehemiah had faith in God and focused on the task ahead, demonstrating the qualities of a good leader.
What are some of the ways people try to prevent us from reaching our goals? Have you ever doubted that you could make it through an obstacle or challenge in your life? How can/ could you change the outcome in a way where God is glorified? Have you ever given up on something or someone because of an obstacle in your life? How does it feel now? These are some of the many questions we should ask ourselves when facing obstacles. Jesus invites us to come to Him when feeling burdened by obstacles or challenges.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30).
Right Shoes for the Right Hurdles
When facing the hurdles (obstacles) in our lives, we must have the right shoes (attitude) in order to overcome them. These can be: 1) opposition, 2) situations, 3) enemies. Finishing the course and overcoming, depends on having the right attitude and maturity of mind. These include: prayer—talking to God as He can help us, faith in God, believing that He will do what He promised, and the courage to press on despite the obstacles in our lives. We must be ‘sure’ footed in order… Obstacles can keep us from moving forward. However, there is no spiritual growth without obstacles. Hebrews 12:1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” Sometimes obstacles are in our way because of sinful or carnal choices that we are making. In any event, we must trust in God for our strength and wisdom in order to get through obstacles, cf. Js. 12:2. Sometimes obstacles are the fears, worries or lies from others we deal with, cf. Jer. 32:27. Obstacles remind us of our weaknesses and remind us that God is in control. The Lord is never caught off guard by our problems or situations, they instead help us to grow in our faith and our testimony helps others to press on.
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