Has something or someone caused you to have an obstruction in your life? Have they taunted you with their words, suppressing you emotionally, therefore leaving you spiritually in pain? Do we, ourselves, cause others to stumble and fall?
In the natural realm, it is an offense to obstruct the free passage on the highway. Obstructions are objects that have been unlawfully placed on a road or a street. The definition of free passage is the ability to travel a highway or a road without being hindered.
With the help of the Holy Spirit, each one of us can face the truth, obey God’s Word and make positive changes for our own spiritual well-being.
Are we willing to take these necessary steps to remove the obstructions in our own lives? Are we willing to trust in Him, surrendering all, not casting stones, but following His commandment to love our neighbors, even as ourselves?
Unity and Maturity in the Body of Christ
The Book of Ephesians is clear in stating that as a prisoner for the Lord, we are urged to live a life worthy of the calling we have received. We are to be completely humble, gentle, patient, bearing with one another in love. We should make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, and just as we were called to one hope, there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God, the Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
With the world in such disarray, I am grateful for those who do choose to stand out in their living for the Lord. It may not be the most popular choice in the world today; but, it is a stand worth taking.
We do all have a reason to join King David in his prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24).
We must remember that the salvation Christ offers is not a reward for our effort, but a gift to all who in light of the evidence put their trust in Him, and in all things. And when I do seek to discover the best in others, it does somehow bring out the best in me.
Overcoming Obstructions
“Casting Down the Stones,” metaphorically, explains my heart, and what I believe the Lord continues to show me. It is so important that we, as the Body of Christ, do not allow these offenses in; but, instead, we must learn to guard our hearts.
Proverbs 4:23-27 teaches us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.”
His Grace Is Given to Everyone
Let us allow love to be the glue that binds us in the middle of adversity. The Lord has shown me such mercy. I can’t help but believe there is a flicker of light and hope in all of us. As followers of Christ, we should share this hope that is first found in Him.
We should offer this hope to others, always, as there is no sin greater than He who came to blot out that sin. We should encourage one another in their gifting, reminding them of the grace that is given to each one of us by our Savior, Jesus Christ.
It is time to allow Him to do some major pruning in our lives, and I am gaining more clarity on what that looks like for me. I do believe that others are learning this lesson, as well.
It is necessary in moving forward, and in removing the obstructions in our own lives.