Obstacle or Opportunity (An Encouraging Word)
As we’ve looked at the Apostle Paul’s life in our study through the book of Acts this year, one thing is certain: What others would see as an obstacle, he saw as an opportunity.
We read an excellent example of this in our recent lesson on Acts 26. Paul was on trial, even though he was found innocent of any wrongdoing. But instead of seeing this as an obstacle, he saw it as an opportunity: he would be able to take the Gospel to the heart of the Roman Empire and share the work of Christ on the cross and in his own life with the king and other very important people.
How was Paul able to see what some would have seen as an obstacle as an opportunity?
One way, I believe, is found in the words he wrote to Timothy (2 Timothy 4) and was the key to not only Paul seeing the opportunity when on trial but how we can see the opportunity when we are in trials:
…keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful… Timothy, please come as soon as you can. Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me…Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm, but the Lord will judge him for what he has done. Be careful of him, for he fought against everything we said. The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death. Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.
Whether he was opposed or deserted, whether he faced hardships or was on trial, he knew that the Lord stood with him so that he could do what he was called to do: preach the Good News to the Gentiles. When he stood in the face of powerful men, on trial, the Lord stood with him. And when we stand in the face of our perceived obstacles, the Lord stands with us, turning those obstacles into opportunities through the power of His presence and His supernatural strength at work within us.
When obstacles seem to prevent you from doing what He has called you to do, whether it is helping a child, caring for an elderly or sick loved one, or assisting a neighbor, remember that He is with you. And remember that He strengthens you.
Because the Lord stood with Paul, Paul was able to stand regardless of his circumstances. He wrote about standing in God’s grace, in humility, in freedom, against the enemy, and standing firm. What Paul wrote and what he believed, he lived. He serves as a powerful example for us of how we, too, can stand.
When you're in a trial or facing an obstacle, consider the following:
-Do you see the situation as an obstacle or an opportunity?
-If you feel alone or that everything is against you, can you confidently say that the Lord is with you?
-Are you asking for His strength to do whatever you are called to do that day or in that situation?
-Are you aware of how you stand?
-Does your life match what you believe as you face this trial?
We have had such a rich study in the book of Acts. And we have seen again and again that God is faithful to use ordinary men and women, in their ordinary - or difficult - moments, to show His extraordinary grace. We invite you to listen to the entire study here. or to listen to the lesson on Acts 26 here..
God bless you,
Cara Blondo
PS - A note from Karen in light of Memorial Day: Remember to thank the Lord for our vets and to pray for them and their families, especially those who lost loved ones while serving their country. We honor and pray for you all. Read “A Soldier’s Conversion” here.