Obstacles to Spiritual Growth

As we begin or continue our spiritual growth, we will come up against obstacles that have the potential to trip us up. An obstacle serves to block or contain something. In some situations, obstacles are positive in that they set reasonable limits on our activities thus keeping us safe. But when it comes to our spiritual growth, we should seek to remove any obstacles that prevent us from becoming who God wants us to be – Christlike. There are many obstacles to spiritual growth that we face every day. Two major obstacles, however, are significant impediments.

Obstacles are not always bad. Sometimes they serve to strengthen us when we overcome them. This is what James tells us in James 1:2: “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,” (NASB). In other words, trials or obstacles can lead us to greater faith that helps us grow spiritually. But as James continues in his teaching, he encourages us to put our reliance on God as we ask for faith, wisdom, and strength to overcome the obstacles to spiritual growth and to become who God wants us to be.

Jeff