What practical steps can we take to "remove the obstacles" in our hearts? The Call to Clear the Way “Build up, build up, prepare the road! Remove the obstacles out of the way of My people.” (Isaiah 57:14) Identifying Heart-Level Obstacles • Unconfessed sin (Proverbs 28:13) • Lingering bitterness or unforgiveness (Ephesians 4:31-32) • Double-minded loyalties—love for the world crowding love for God (James 4:8) • Spiritual neglect—prayerlessness and neglect of the Word (Psalm 119:105) Practical Steps to Remove the Obstacles • Honest Self-Examination – Invite the Spirit to search you: “Search me, O God…see if there is any offensive way in me.” (Psalm 139:23-24) – Keep a journal of recurring sins or attitudes the Spirit exposes. • Immediate Confession and Repentance – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive.” (1 John 1:9) – Turn from sin decisively; don’t merely feel sorry—change direction. • Daily Saturation in Scripture – Receive the implanted word “which is able to save your souls.” (James 1:21) – Memorize key verses that address your particular stumbling blocks. • Intentional Prayer Habits – Set fixed moments morning and night to seek God (Psalm 5:3). – Pray aloud, naming the obstacle and yielding it to Christ. • Relentless Mind Renewal – “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) – Replace lies with truth; when jealousy rises, recite Philippians 2:3-4. • Radical Amputation of Temptations – “Put to death what is earthly in you.” (Colossians 3:5) – Delete apps, end toxic relationships, change daily routes—whatever feeds the obstacle. • Cultivating Forgiveness – Remember you were forgiven an unpayable debt (Matthew 18:32-33). – Pray blessing over those who wounded you; write a letter of release (whether mailed or not). • Consistent Fellowship and Accountability – “Encourage one another day after day.” (Hebrews 3:13) – Join a small group; give a trusted believer permission to ask hard questions. The Promise of a Renewed Heart “I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26) God not only commands obstacle-removal; He empowers it. As you obey, He softens your heart, making room for unhindered fellowship and fruitful service. Momentum for the Journey “Let us lay aside every encumbrance… and run with endurance the race set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1) Clearing the path is not a one-time event but a lifestyle of vigilant, grace-powered upkeep. Keep removing, keep running, and enjoy the unblocked view of Christ ahead. |
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