What Helps You Conquer Obstacles?

Have you ever taken an unhurried road trip away from the interstate to enjoy the countryside? These quaint little places are delightful to those who love the experience of not being rushed. While some frustration is unavoidable, it doesn’t have to displace your joy and peace.

If I measure all I have and all I am by other people’s success, I will come up short. Saul fell into this trap by comparing himself to David even before he knew David would replace him as king. David killed Goliath and the people loudly voiced their love and approval for David.

What was viewed as trouble by Saul could have been perceived as a gift from God, but Saul’s confidence and mental state would not permit it. David had a heart for God resulting in confidence to face what seemed impossible. Instead of permitting trouble to conquer him, he conquered trouble by faith in God. 

Faith overcomes obstacles.  

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It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.

~Psalm 18:32 New International Version

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Stubborn Honesty or Stubborn Pride? - Part 1

Finding a companion for marriage that lasts a lifetime is an endeavor that begins in late adolescence because God created us for attachment, commitment, and compatibility. Without compatibility, a rift develops that keeps closeness and intimacy in the shadows while creating an atmosphere for continuous power struggles. Intimacy based on trust and acceptance is out of step with power struggles.

Pretending to accept what is incompatible with your values is dishonesty and a refusal to face the truth. Honesty has the courage to verbalize your real self to others. Don't pretend to go along with behaviors just to get others to accept you. Dishonesty will come back to haunt you in the form of power struggles and possible abandonment.

Choosing honesty by disclosing what you know to be your authentic self is what God intends. You can trust God's word for help from Psalm 18:32. "It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect." Believe me, God will make a way and a perfect time for you to express who you are. Honesty makes way for genuine intimacy and peace.