Confronting Closed Doors

Confronting Closed Doors
Acts 16:5-10

“Without faith it is impossible to please [God].”
Hebrews 11:6

29 August

Billy wanted a pellet gun for his birthday. Because his parents thought he was still too young, they gave him a different present. They wanted the best for their son and that meant having to say no, out of love, to something he really wanted.

What door of opportunity has been closed that you have longed for, planned for, or dreamed of? How do you respond to such disappointment?

When you put your complete trust and faith in God, you can rest knowing that He allows closed doors because He knows ultimately what is best for you.

God may close a door in order to redirect you for a blessing or responsibility He has prepared for you. A door may be closed because you are not ready or equipped for what He is calling you to do.

Remember His timing is perfect. He knows what you can handle. Because God is omniscient, He sees the big picture. He knows the plans He has for your life. And as your loving heavenly Father, He will guide and protect you.

Open doors do not guarantee we will have comfort, ease, and pleasure. Sometimes we may experience discomfort and difficulty in order to strengthen our faith. However, God is always working to build perseverance, strength, and character in our lives.

God gives good things for His children, and you are His beloved child!

30 August

[God] has designed His eternal purpose so that His glory and our good are . . . bound together.
Jerry Bridges

Confronting Closed Doors
Psalm 32:8

There are times when something we think will work out does not. The door of opportunity is closed. We have two choices: either accept the closed door or try to force it open.

Often you think the only way to achieve what you want is to manipulate your circumstances or those around you to help you get your way.

When you force your way it never works. You may see momentary results, but when the excitement wears off you may find yourself in a situation far worse than you could imagine. The feelings of discouragement, anger, and bitterness may cause you to lose focus.

There are consequences for forcing doors open. You can deprive yourself of the blessings and opportunities God has for you. Be careful not to place the blame for your actions on other people or God.

When you have direction from God, be willing to wait on His timing. Anxiety can result in a loss of perspective. When you become anxious you may be tempted to make things happen on your own and thus miss when God presents a divine opportunity.

We need to learn to wait on God. Psalm 25:5 says, “Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day.”

Ask God for guidance and sensitivity to know when He is opening or closing a door of opportunity.

(By: In Touch Ministries>>> I had this on my computer from 2000)

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