Jeremiah 29:11
New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Casting Crowns had a Facebook status a while back that said "If you think God is getting in your way, you're going the wrong way." It's a very small statement that packs a lot of power. How often do we feel that God is keeping us from something that we really want? I know it is something I have felt at different points in my life. I've been fortunate enough to have God allow me moments of experiential learning to see why his way is better. He's let me go down my chosen path and see why my way isn't the best. He has also given me opportunities to see the beauty in going against my nature and doing it his way. It can be the harder decision, but it comes with softer results.
Proverbs 3:6
Amplified Bible (AMP)
6In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.
For any parents (or aunts, uncles, or anyone that desires to be a parent, aunt, or uncle) do we direct our children to do things that will cause them intentional harm? Do we seek to do things that will make them miserable for the sake of doing so? Of course not! We give them directions in order to set them up for success, even if it means causing them a bit of immediate discomfort. But also as parents, we have to sometimes allow them to learn from their mistakes and be there with a bit of grace and mercy once they've messed things up.
God treats us the same way. He doesn't want to see us unnecessarily burdened, but that doesn't mean that doing things his way will be comfortable, however it will be more comfortable than trying to do things outside of proper order.
How often have you experienced seeing a path you could have taken and getting the opportunity to acknowledge why God closed that door? Those are some awesome moments.
I don't get joy out of seeing others not doing as well as they could have, but it is a blessing to see that when God has removed a person or a situation from my life, it is for my own good. Those are the times you begin to thank and praise God for unanswered prayers. If you feel like God is getting in your way, it's probably time to stop and ask for directions.
