Thursday, January 18, 2007
Obstacles and Objectives
Obstacles are the things encountered on the way to the goal. Focus on the
obstacles and one loses sight of the objective. Focusing on the goal helps one deal
with the obstacles.
The Israelites heard the spies report of the obstacles and gave up pursuing the
objective of entering the promised land.
"We are not able to go up against the people, for they are too strong for us."
Numbers 13:31
Their response:
"Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that
we had died in this wilderness!"
Numbers 14:2
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
On the other hand, Paul, hearing of the obstacles facing him in Jerusalem, pursued
his goal and dealt with the obstacles.
"The Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into
the hands of the Gentiles."
Acts 21:11
His response:
"What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to
be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
Acts 21:13
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When we encounter obstacles in living for Jesus, we must not focus on the
obstacles but keep our eye on our objective. May we echo the words of Caleb and the
Apostle Paul:
"If the Lord is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land
and give it to us.”
Numbers 14:8
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of
God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14
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