*WHEN WE'RE FACING THE HARDEST OBSTACLES: WHAT TO KNOW AND THE WAY FORWARD* (Article 1)

*WHEN WE'RE FACING THE HARDEST OBSTACLES: WHAT TO KNOW AND THE WAY FORWARD* (Article 1) 

Are you encountering obstacles on your journey to fulfilling your purpose, vision, and dreams? Let's embark on this inspirational journey, drawing from spiritual insights and personal experiences to help us become fulfilled individuals. In this series, I’ve felt inspired to write seven articles about what to know and how to navigate the present obstacles we face. 

It’s important to understand that no amount of prayer or fasting will eliminate all obstacles; rather, God grants us the wisdom to confront both present and future challenges through our prayers and reflections. Obstacles are not meant to bring us down; they are here to make us stronger, tougher, and more resilient. However, ignoring our obstacles and failing to take responsibility for overcoming them can hold us back. No one achieves greatness or fulfills their purpose without facing challenges. Instead of looking down, we should embrace obstacles, take responsibility, and face them head-on. 

Earlier this year, God whispered to me that nothing is too difficult for Him to accomplish again—and even to do more. (On January 6, 2025, I wrote a short article about this, unaware of the many challenges that awaited me in the coming months.) Some obstacles brought me down, some redefined my thoughts, and some even uplifted me. Through these experiences, I've realized that our suffering is prolonged when we aren't aware of our obstacles on time. Are you following me? (Eyes wide open 👀👀👀). You must recognize the barriers that need to be removed or navigated for you to progress in your journey of fulfilling your destiny.

Being unaware of your obstacles can cause your life to stagnate or even regress. You cannot change what you are not aware of—self-awareness is the first step toward overcoming obstacles. You need to identify what is preventing you from moving forward; it could be a spiritual issue, ignorance, external attacks, laziness, etc. Be mindful of your obstacles. If something can be changed, remove it or alter it; if it cannot be changed, find a way to work around it and continue making progress. You can only control what you can change. Focusing on unchangeable obstacles will only add to your difficulties. 

The best way to become more aware of obstacles (or difficult problems) is through spiritual introspection and looking inwardly. (I will elaborate more on this in future articles.)

What issues are hindering your progress? (It might help to write them down.)

Self-awareness leads to living by design rather than by default. When we live by design, we understand that our strength comes from God, who helps us shoulder our responsibilities. Being aware of our obstacles also means recognizing that no one is going to solve these problems for us. It's entirely our responsibility; everyone faces obstacles. You need to take ownership of your challenges.

Consider Joseph’s story: he faced betrayal from his brothers, was sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned. He took full responsibility for his circumstances and never placed blame on his brothers. Like Joseph, you need to rise up and confront your challenges with the strength of God by your side. Don't shift the burden of your obstacles onto others; take responsibility to either overcome them or find a way around them.

In conclusion, "God doesn’t remove obstacles; He strengthens us to overcome them." Be empowered to tackle your obstacles head-on. You must be aware of and take responsibility for every hurdle in your life. Let’s stop blaming others for our challenges! God bless you.

I write from a place of inspiration and scriptural insight and look forward to sharing the next articles with you. Remember, you’re not alone; He is with you.

Stay tuned for more inspired thoughts before the next article.

I hope you feel inspired. 

Feel free to share, like, and comment!

To be continued…..

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