Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, obstacles are often seen as challenges or hindrances that believers encounter in their spiritual journey. These can be physical, spiritual, or emotional barriers that test faith, perseverance, and reliance on God. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on how to confront and overcome obstacles through faith and divine assistance.Old Testament Examples 1. The Red Sea: One of the most dramatic obstacles faced by the Israelites was the Red Sea, which stood between them and freedom from Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 14:21-22 , God miraculously parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This event underscores the belief that God can remove seemingly insurmountable barriers for His people. 2. Jericho's Walls: In Joshua 6, the fortified city of Jericho presented a significant obstacle to the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land. God instructed Joshua to have the people march around the city for seven days. On the seventh day, the walls fell after the Israelites shouted and blew trumpets, demonstrating that obedience to God's commands can lead to the overcoming of obstacles. 3. Goliath: The giant Goliath was an obstacle to the Israelites, instilling fear in their army. In 1 Samuel 17, David, a young shepherd, faced Goliath with faith in God, declaring, "The battle is the LORD’s" (1 Samuel 17:47). David's victory illustrates that faith in God can empower believers to overcome formidable challenges. New Testament Teachings 1. Faith and Mountains: Jesus taught that faith can move mountains, a metaphor for overcoming obstacles. In Matthew 17:20 , He said, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." This teaching emphasizes the power of faith in overcoming difficulties. 2. Paul's Trials: The Apostle Paul faced numerous obstacles, including imprisonment, shipwrecks, and persecution. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 , Paul shares God's response to his plea for relief: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Paul learned to rely on God's strength, finding that obstacles can lead to spiritual growth and reliance on divine grace. 3. Perseverance in Trials: James 1:2-4 encourages believers to view trials as opportunities for growth: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." This passage teaches that obstacles can refine faith and build character. Spiritual Obstacles 1. Sin and Temptation: Sin is a significant spiritual obstacle that separates individuals from God. Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Overcoming sin requires repentance and reliance on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. 2. Doubt and Fear: Doubt and fear can hinder spiritual progress. In Matthew 14:29-31 , Peter walked on water toward Jesus but began to sink when he doubted. Jesus immediately reached out to save him, highlighting the importance of maintaining faith and focus on Christ amidst life's storms. 3. Worldly Distractions: The parable of the sower in Matthew 13:22 warns of the "worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth" that can choke the word, making it unfruitful. Believers are encouraged to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly concerns. Overcoming Obstacles The Bible consistently teaches that obstacles can be overcome through faith, prayer, and reliance on God's power. Philippians 4:13 declares, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." This assurance encourages believers to trust in God's provision and strength when facing challenges. Additionally, Ephesians 6:10-11 advises believers to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power" and to "put on the full armor of God" to stand firm against spiritual obstacles. Greek 4297. prokope -- progress ... impedes progress"; furtherance. For the believer, this means going in sanctification, cutting through obstacles . [This root () is ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4297.htm - 7k 4728. stenos -- narrow 4037. perimeno -- to wait for Library Obstacles to Faith. Whether the First Precept of the Decalogue is Fittingly Expressed? "Not by Might, nor by Power" Letter xxii. --Fidelity to the Call of God. Whether the Degree of Goodness or Malice in the Will Depends on ... Whether those who are not Practiced in Keeping the Commandments ... The Spiritual Guide, Whether the Particular Punishments of Our First Parents are ... Hezekiah, a Pattern of Devout Life Whether Parish Priests and Archdeacons are More Perfect than ... Thesaurus Obstacles (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Obstacles (3 Occurrences). Romans 16:17 Now I beg you, brothers, look out for those who are causing the ... /o/obstacles.htm - 7k Obstacle (6 Occurrences) Obstinacy (1 Occurrence) Fair (147 Occurrences) Thread (32 Occurrences) Traverse (5 Occurrences) Encounter (10 Occurrences) Dilemma (1 Occurrence) Push (23 Occurrences) Resources What is the full armor of God? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is following Christ so difficult? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God makes our feet like the feet of a deer (Habakkuk 3:19)? | GotQuestions.org Obstacles: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Obstacles (3 Occurrences)Romans 16:17 Isaiah 57:14 Jeremiah 6:21 Subtopics Obstetrics: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |