Allow Obstacles to Build Your Faith - Part 1

Frustrating obstacles often clog the pathway to our hopes and dreams. We have no choice in whether obstructions turn up, but we do have choices in how they are managed. Obstacles could be perceived as faith-builders, even as encouragers. A humorous example is found in Numbers 22. Balaam, a mercenary prophet, is saved from annihilation by his donkey.

The king of Moab feared the Hebrew people, who needed to pass through

his country on their way to the promised land. He recruited Balaam to put a curse on the Israelites. This action displeased God, so obstructions were created to prevent Balaam from carrying out the king's plan.

While on his way to place the curse, Balaam's donkey saw an angel of God standing in the road with a drawn sword. The donkey could see what Balaam could not. Finally, Balaam understood the obstruction and confessed his sin. Accepting God’s obstructions as faith-builders is a choice, but it illustrates God's determination to save you. For this, you should thank God.  

Defeat Fear of Failure: Choose Faith - Part 1

Addressing the nation after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Franklin Delano Roosevelt declared, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." He was aware that fear can be a powerful obstruction to taking positive, decisive action. Submitting to fear may be regretted later when the end result did not meet expectations.

With every opportunity it is not unusual to experience doubt, even fear, for opportunities require change. Self-doubt can be a significant obstacle because of negative thinking patterns like: "I can't do it!” “I'm not smart enough!” “What if I fail?” Negative thought patterns are obstructions to confidence and can be destructive to self-esteem and self-assurance.

Fear conflicts with faith, so when fear gets a grip, refocus your faith on Christ Jesus and 1 John 4:18. "There is no fear in love for perfect love casts out fear." The object of perfect love is Christ Jesus, who gives faith and strength to overpower fear. So when fear sets its a trap, focus on God's purpose and love for you.