Overcoming Obstacles
Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain…and the glory of the LORD shall be revealed. (Isa 40:4-5)
The tallest mountain on the planet is Mount Everest. In its history, there have been over 4000 successful climbers to reach the top of Mount Everest. Each year, approximately 800 people venture to make the climb to behold the summit. For few people, Mount Everest is a challenge to be overcome, yet others, it is an obstacle to be avoided. Our scripture passage today reminds us that when we face challenges, difficulties, and detours in life, they may seem like mountains. At these moments we have a choice. Be overwhelmed or be energized. A mountain moment is overwhelming to the one who stands alone and considers the obstacle or opposition in their own strength and limited resources. For others, the mountain moment is energizing because they know the Savior and “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed.” Yet no matter the perspective, the first thought that may cross one’s mind “if I am in God’s will, why am I facing obstacles?” My friend, God works in the life of His children to grow, strengthen, and prosper them that He may reveal Himself in a profound way. You can be in the center of God’s plan for your life, do exactly as He says, and encounter a mountain of opposition because of your enemy, satan. Satan will distract, attack and present obstacles to hinder “every good work” (2 Tim 3:17) that God seeks to accomplish in the life of His children. But friend, do not focus on the mountain before you. Look to Almighty God who loves you, provides for you, protects you and causes “all things work together for good to those who love God” (Rom 8:28). God is “able to do exceedingly above all that we ask or think” (Eph 3:20) and handle your trouble that “every mountain and hill shall be made low.” Friend, trust Him by faith and your relationship with Him will grow even stronger and He will be glorified. Father, thank You that You are greater than any mountain I will ever face. I trust You in Jesus Name. Amen.