Moving Up
When we set out towards a goal, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the many obstacles that might stand in the way. As the hurdles of life appear one right after the other, we question whether we are on the right track. I know for myself that obstacles appear with certainty every time I have moved towards a place that God is calling me to. It’s in those moments that I see why many people never reach their destinations. It’s hard. We get distracted and worn down by the process.
A Biblical visual of this that comes to mind is that God told the children of Israel to go in and possess the land. He didn’t say they should stand on the outside waiting for something to happen, but that they should move forward toward the obstacles that stood in front of them. Unfortunately, fear of those very obstacles stopped a whole generation from experiencing God’s full promise on their life. They saw what looked impossible in their eyes and wanted to return to bondage in Egypt instead! Mind you, this happened right after seeing the Red Sea part in front of their eyes. Even though they witnessed miracles and saw God’s handiwork, they were unwilling to believe in God’s faithfulness. They were unable to possess the land that God was giving them.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
James 1:2,3
One powerful thing that I have learned is that obstacles are what prepare you to successfully inhabit and live in the land God is giving you. The obstacles build character and endurance by building our spiritual muscles! We need those hurdles! We are encouraged in scripture to count them as JOY! After walking through many seasons of life towards goals and growth, I have come to find JOY in the process and see the beauty that God inhabits in our process towards our goals.
What is it today that God is calling you to? Where are you scared to step out in your life? It could be in a relationship, a job, or in believing for greater things in your life. Do not be afraid of a giant in front of you. Don’t allow the roar to cause you to stop. If God is leading you somewhere, realize that there might be some “possessing” that needs to be done to prepare you and the place that you are walking into. Possess those hurdles and count it all JOY!
