Obstacles: The Gateway to Growth

“The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14 (NIV)

We tend to see obstacles as roadblocks—things that hold us back, frustrate us, or delay our plans. But what if these obstacles aren’t blocking our path at all? What if they’re actually essential steps toward growth?

Ryan Holiday, in his book The Obstacle Is the Way, says obstacles don’t just get in the way—they are the way. They’re necessary challenges that shape who we become. The key is shifting our perspective to see these challenges not as burdens, but as pathways to growth.

The Bible illustrates this beautifully through the story of Moses and the Israelites at the Red Sea. They faced an obstacle that seemed impossible: water in front, Egyptian army behind. Yet that obstacle became their pathway to freedom and a powerful demonstration of God’s strength.

Three Principles for Facing Obstacles with Faith

1. Perception: Obstacles are Opportunities

When the Israelites saw the Red Sea, they panicked. They saw no way forward. But Moses saw it differently—as an opportunity for God’s power to shine. Our first step is changing how we perceive obstacles, seeing them as opportunities rather than setbacks.

Personal Example: My Granddaughter’s First Steps

My two-month-old granddaughter is at the very beginning of life’s journey. She has countless obstacles ahead: learning to crawl, walk, speak, and understand the world around her. Each milestone will come with challenges, frustration, and probably some tears.

But think about it: learning to walk involves falling down—a lot. Every fall might seem like failure, but it’s exactly those falls that teach her how to balance and move forward. Without the obstacle of falling, she would never develop the strength to walk.

Likewise, every obstacle you encounter can teach you the balance and strength needed for the journey ahead.

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2. Action: Growth Happens Through Movement

The Israelites didn’t cross the Red Sea standing still. Moses took action—he raised his staff in obedience, trusting God to open a path. Obstacles require us to move forward, even before the path is clear.

Personal Example: Learning Through Trial and Error

Soon, my granddaughter will begin exploring her world. She’ll attempt words, movements, and interactions. Many attempts will fail at first—words will be unclear, steps wobbly. Yet, each attempt is crucial. She will only develop through action, effort, and repeated tries.

Obstacles require action—even imperfect action. They call us out of comfort, inviting us to trust and try again.

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3. Will: Perseverance Shapes Our Future

Holiday emphasizes perseverance—staying strong when challenges come. For the Israelites, crossing the Red Sea wasn’t instant or comfortable. They had to walk forward, trusting the process even when it was uncertain.

Personal Example: Persevering Through Growth

My granddaughter’s growth won’t happen overnight. Walking, talking, reading, and understanding the world take time. There will be frustration, setbacks, and tears—but perseverance makes growth possible.

God uses obstacles in our lives similarly: each challenge, endured faithfully, shapes us into the people He created us to become.

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How to Face Obstacles with Faith Today

If you’re facing an obstacle today—career struggles, family stress, health issues—remember these truths:

✅ Change your perception. Obstacles are stepping-stones, not dead ends.
✅ Take action. Move forward, even if the path isn’t yet clear.
✅ Persevere. Growth happens slowly—keep trusting God through each step.

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Reflection Questions

• What obstacle in your life could be an opportunity in disguise?
• Where might God be asking you to move forward, even before the path is clear?
• How can viewing your challenges as necessary for growth change your perspective today?

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Final Thought

Obstacles aren’t there to stop you—they’re there to grow you. My granddaughter’s journey through life’s milestones will be filled with challenges. But it’s precisely those challenges—learning to stand after falling, speak after babbling—that will help her become who she is meant to be.

Your obstacles are the same: they’re essential parts of your growth. Trust God, move forward, and let each challenge shape you into who He designed you to be.

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