Changed by a Roadblock

Overcoming All Obstacles

Life is an obstacle course that we attempt to maneuver on a daily basis. Sometimes, on an hourly basis. What is an obstacle, what does this word mean?  It means something that obstructs or hinders progress. I imagine each of us has had our share of obstructions in our life; roadblocks which either stop us in our tracks and cause us to reroute our path, or take us on an entirely different journey.

While these barriers are often seen as a bad thing, an impediment to our trek, they can just as easily be a positive experience, a time for growth and discovery we would not have, had the way been clear of all difficulty.

“Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again.’ (Exodus14:13)

Obstacles sometimes force us to take a detour. But, it is on these unexpected diversions we discover new scenery, beautiful people, wondrous experiences, and exciting adventure. It might take us a while to understand and open our eyes to what is around us, but the new view can be spectacular.

Consider the Egyptians. Their escape route took them through the Red Sea, literally. God gave them a miraculous escape route – through the waters of the Red Sea. This watery obstacle became the pathway to freedom.

Now think about Paul and the obstacles he faced on all his missionary journeys; one right after another. But, they always brought him out on the other side. The danger behind him, the Kingdom before him.

Finally, take a moment to reflect on some of the obstacles you have faced. Tell about the journey, the detour that changed your path forever.  Maybe you are facing a huge complication right now. Is God preparing you for a fresh new adventure?

When your voyage gets rough, or the road ahead is not clear of debris, just maybe there is a detour in your future.

Exodus 14:13-31

Opportunities and Roadblocks

Paul finds himself in court once again, but this time he was prepared to show his actions were legal; he wasn't teaching contrary to law.  This was an opportunity for him to share important, salvational information, but Gallio, the proconsul (governor) of Achaia shut him down.

Paul was charged with persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law. We learn further (Acts 18:12-17) that the chance for him to speak truth in his own defense was denied by Gallio. The Jews were furious that Paul was released and took their anger out on Sosthenes the leader of the synagogue, for losing the case.

This may seem like a 'win' for Paul, having been released from custody like this, but Paul was looking forward to telling the Jews in that court room about Jesus.  This was an important judicial decision for the spread of the Good News in the Roman Empire. Judaism was a recognized religion under Roman law. As long as Christians were seen as part of Judaism, the court refused to hear cases brought against them. - Life Application Study Bible.

Think of the many times we look back and regret having missed golden opportunity to do or say something. Those times when we were verbally assaulted and just stood there speechless, and only moments later, when the moments has already passed, we think of the words we might have said.

Had Gallio allowed Paul to defend his actions, the gospel message might have spread quicker. It makes me wonder what Gallio was afraid of.  Did he fear hearing the truth?  Was the Holy Spirit convicting him as a Jew, for his role in the death of the Savior? It is hard to tell, but we do know that Satan prowls and does his best to impede the spread of the Good News.

It is our duty to identify those satanic roadblocks and jump over them. We can do this with prayer.  God, give us eyes to see truth when it is before us.  Help us recognize the wiles of evil and shut it down. Amen.