Three Obstacles

And it will be said: “Build up, build up, prepare the road! Remove the obstacles out of the way of my people.” Isaiah 57:14

In Bible days marathons weren’t run on smooth tracks, but over pathways filled with obstacles that could cause a runner to stumble and lose the race. Here are three obstacles you need to look out for as you run your life’s race: 1) an unforgiving attitude. ‘…If you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses’ (Mark 11:26). When the mention of someone’s name triggers resentment, stop and pray, ‘Father, I forgive them as You’ve forgiven me. Whatever I ask for myself in blessing, I ask for them in double measure.’ When you retaliate, you deny God the right to show mercy and deal with the situation His way. Don’t play God. You’ve received mercy—pass it on! 2) an unhealthy relationship. Paul writes, ‘…Bad company corrupts good character’ (1 Corinthians 15:33). On the journey of life, you get to choose your travelling companions. If you give your time to those who aren’t worthy of it, you’ve no right to complain. Become more selective. Choose your friends from among those who share your values, understand your God-given purpose and strengthen you. 3) an undecided heart. Paul writes, ‘…I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize…’ (Philippians 3:13-14). A decided heart is the result of a made-up mind. It’s what separates the winners from the losers. Pour your life into something more than self-interest; commit to a purpose that will outlive you!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to overcome the obstacles I have placed on my path so that I can run the good race! In Jesus’ Name, Amen