Recognize Roadblocks

Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. (2 Timothy 2:23-26 NIV)

Once you've taken the time to be alone with God, entered into His presence, and listened to His Priorities for your day, the next thing you will almost immediately recognize roadblocks.  Sometimes, I hear leaders refer to them as "challenges."  That's probably a better way to look at them.  These are things that seem to block us, but actually just distract us, from walking together with God.  They are temptations, if you will, to go in another direction or set other priorities for our day.  They can drag you in and drag you down before you know it.

These interruptions, challenges, or roadblocks may come in the form of a phone call, text, facebook message, or someone walking into the room.  They don't fit into your daily schedule.  They're not on your calendar.  They present problems, situations, or concerns that you weren't ready to face today.  Often times, the challenges present themselves inside our own minds...distracting us from the Garden Walk God intended for us to experience today.

In any case, it's not a bad thing to recognize those roadblocks that try to stop you from doing what God has called you to do today.  Remember, Jesus said His to-do list would be "easy" and "light."  It's the weight of the world that will wear you down and pull you out of His Garden.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30 NIV)

Remember, whatever God calls you to do, He will equip you to do.

What is God calling you to do today?
What challenges are trying to get in the way of your walk with God?
How does He want you to overcome them?