“Nevertheless, I am continually with You;You hold me by my right hand.” (Psalm 73:23 NKJV)

Remember the secure warmth of a parent enveloping your tiny hand in theirs? We still crave that security from our heavenly Father. Today’s verse speaks of God’s constant presence. He holds our hands. Amidst the bustle of daily life, this truth can escape our memories until an obstacle blocks our path.

Iva stopped for some unknown reason. Upon investigation I discovered a temporary fence across the sidewalk. Some type of construction was going on, even though no one was working presently.

The obstacle forced us to find an alternate route, which included crossing a busy intersection without a traffic light. Could we handle this? Nerves tried shouting above my prayer, “Yes, we can do this with You, Lord.”

We patiently waited for a lull in traffic before rushing across the street. Iva and I had successfully worked through our first obstruction as a guide dog team. Minutes earlier, nervous energy tried to prevail, but now a sense of accomplishment and overwhelming joy took its place.

Obstacles speckle the path of life; the unexpected bill, the dead battery in the car, the illness that swept us off our feet, and we’ve all been hindered by the Covid-19 global pandemic. Whether large or small, these unwanted hardships cannot be avoided.

That temporary fencing provided me with two important lessons. First, God places obstacles in our path to protect us. Obviously, a hole, or construction equipment was on the opposite side of that fence. The work crew put the fence there in order to keep people safe. Likewise, God protects us from unseen dangers, and He prevents us from taking a wrong turn in life. When an obstruction gets in the way, remember, God has your best in mind. Pray about it and seek God’s wisdom.

Secondly, obstacles take us on journeys we often avoid. God puts us on the sidewalk of life that begs for our faith.  It’s the path we prefer to avoid, and often God creates a detour to force us to travel a road we would never choose for ourselves.

How often do we hold back from moving forward because we hesitate when it comes to uncharted territory?

• I just don’t think I’m cut out for that new position.
• I don’t know if I can serve in that capacity.
• I can’t speak in front of people.

Faith is a muscle that requires movement.

A great strengthening exercise comes from the circumstances that force us to walk by faith and not by sight.

What roadblock faces you today: disease, depression, grief, finances, or heartache? Instead of falling into a pit of despair, allow the obstacle to become an opportunity.

God turns obstacles into opportunities.

Lift up your chin! This side trip has benefits. Although you may never know what God protected you from, you’ve grasped the reward of stronger faith.

Lord Jesus, I apologize for forgetting You are continually with me. I know You hold my hand as I traverse this detour in life. I trust Your purposes for preventing me from going my own way, and I know this difficult road will bring You glory as my faith grows. Amen.

Digging for Bones

Read Romans 5:3-5.

Did you enjoy this devotional from Walking by Faith, Not Sight: 30 Inspirational Moments with Iva (Guide Dog Tales Book 2)?  A limited supply have color photos. Learn more here!

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Originally posted on April 5, 2021 @ 3:00 am