Removing Obstacles
What causes a plant to grow? That answer, I understand, is certainly multifaceted. Most need sunlight and water. They need to be planted in the right soil and they need to be protected from the elements in some way. However, it is still amazing to think that most large trees come from a tiny seed and there may be secrets of how exactly that happens firmly grasped in the hands of God.
One other simple, yet profound concept, is that obstacles must be removed to allow for growth. A gardener may try to remove the obstacles that block the sun. They may attempt to remove others that could result in the over-watering or under-watering of the plant. They may attempt to keep it clear of the main foot traffic and remove rocks and weeds that may stand in the way of it reaching its full potential. They really aren’t responsible for every part of the growth, but are responsible for helping clear a path for growth to happen.
The same is true in helping professions like counseling, as well as in ministry. We cannot make growth happen in people’s lives. We may try to plant seeds and water, but most of the time we are actually trying to help people identify the obstacles and get those things out of the way so they can grow. There are plenty of things that try to get in the way of us reaching our full potential as disciples of Christ. Sometimes we need our brothers and sisters to help point out those things and help us continue to grow in the right direction.
Our group has gone to Challenge Youth Conference for many years. Our current youth minister, Will Myhan, has for several years taken up cell phones at CYC and pressed the kids to show up early to get a front row seat to the conference so that the kids can focus on the lessons without the hindrance of phones or other people in front of them. And it has had a wonderful affect. They listen. They take notes. They engage. They grow. Simply because obstacles have been removed.
So what obstacles are standing in your way of growth? What things hinder you from a deeper relationship with Jesus. What keeps you from spending time with God each day? Spiritual growth will happen...but first, let’s work on getting the things that hinder you out of the way.
Ben