The Daily Devotional
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Opened Doors in Unexpected Places
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Opened Doors in Unexpected Places
Look, I have set before you an open door.
Revelation 3:8
Reflection
Patricia's journey, much like the message to the church in Philadelphia in Revelation 3:8, is a testament to resilience in the face of closed doors. As she stepped into a new school near a bustling city, carrying with her a history of academic excellence, she encountered an unexpected setback. The guidance counselor, perhaps misjudging her potential, placed her in a basic English composition class, disregarding her impressive achievements, thereby closing the door to the “best” writing class in her new school.
In this moment, Patricia's story aligns with the ancient church of Philadelphia. They, too, were small in number and power, yet they remained steadfast in their faith, earning the Lord's favor. He opened for them an unshakable door of opportunity, one that no force could close. This was not a mere physical gateway but a spiritual passage to greater works and divine purposes.
Like the Philadelphian church, Patricia found herself at a threshold. The denial of entry into the advanced class might have seemed like a closed door, yet it was an opportunity for her to demonstrate perseverance, humility, and trust in God's plan. In our lives, we often face similar situations where our expectations and reality diverge. We must remember that our journey is not defined by human assessments or societal standards but by God's unerring guidance.
In these moments of seeming setbacks, let us recall the promise of Revelation 3:8. God knows our deeds, our struggles, and our faithfulness. When He opens a door, it is not just an entryway to success as the world sees it, but to spiritual growth, character development, and opportunities to glorify Him in ways we might not have imagined.
Application
As we contemplate Patricia's story and the message to the church in Philadelphia, let us embrace the open doors God places in our path. These doors may not always lead to where we expect, but they always lead to where we need to be for our growth and His glory.
Let us also remember that closed doors are not barriers, but redirections. They guide us towards the paths God has uniquely set for us. In every situation, whether it seems favorable or not, there is a purpose and an opportunity to trust in the Lord's greater plan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this principle is deeply relevant to our ministry endeavors. We may encounter moments when certain doors seem closed or opportunities appear unreachable. Yet, in my personal journey of writing for God's glory, I have witnessed His profound grace in opening new avenues. These have allowed my message to reach a global audience, overcoming any discouraging views I've faced. Likewise, remember that no closed door can truly hinder us. As Jesus Himself assures us, "I am the door" (John 10:9, KJV). Let us wholeheartedly accept the opportunities God presents to us and follow His guidance with unwavering faith.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the doors You open and close in our lives. Help us to see challenges not as setbacks but as opportunities to trust in Your divine plan. Grant us the wisdom to recognize the doors You open for us and the courage to walk through them in faith. May we, like the church in Philadelphia, remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that You are with us always. Amen.
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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Click on the image to delve into the uplifting and soul-stirring devotional…
Patricia's journey, much like the message to the church in Philadelphia in Revelation 3:8, is a testament to resilience in the face of closed doors. As she stepped into a new school near a bustling city, carrying with her a history of academic excellence, she encountered an unexpected setback. The guidance counselor, perhaps misjudging her potential, placed her in a basic English composition class, disregarding her impressive achievements, thereby closing the door to the “best” writing class in her new school.
In this moment, Patricia's story aligns with the ancient church of Philadelphia. They, too, were small in number and power, yet they remained steadfast in their faith, earning the Lord's favor. He opened for them an unshakable door of opportunity, one that no force could close. This was not a mere physical gateway but a spiritual passage to greater works and divine purposes.
Like the Philadelphian church, Patricia found herself at a threshold. The denial of entry into the advanced class might have seemed like a closed door, yet it was an opportunity for her to demonstrate perseverance, humility, and trust in God's plan. In our lives, we often face similar situations where our expectations and reality diverge. We must remember that our journey is not defined by human assessments or societal standards but by God's unerring guidance.
In these moments of seeming setbacks, let us recall the promise of Revelation 3:8. God knows our deeds, our struggles, and our faithfulness. When He opens a door, it is not just an entryway to success as the world sees it, but to spiritual growth, character development, and opportunities to glorify Him in ways we might not have imagined.
Application
As we contemplate Patricia's story and the message to the church in Philadelphia, let us embrace the open doors God places in our path. These doors may not always lead to where we expect, but they always lead to where we need to be for our growth and His glory.
Let us also remember that closed doors are not barriers, but redirections. They guide us towards the paths God has uniquely set for us. In every situation, whether it seems favorable or not, there is a purpose and an opportunity to trust in the Lord's greater plan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this principle is deeply relevant to our ministry endeavors. We may encounter moments when certain doors seem closed or opportunities appear unreachable. Yet, in my personal journey of writing for God's glory, I have witnessed His profound grace in opening new avenues. These have allowed my message to reach a global audience, overcoming any discouraging views I've faced. Likewise, remember that no closed door can truly hinder us. As Jesus Himself assures us, "I am the door" (John 10:9, KJV). Let us wholeheartedly accept the opportunities God presents to us and follow His guidance with unwavering faith.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the doors You open and close in our lives. Help us to see challenges not as setbacks but as opportunities to trust in Your divine plan. Grant us the wisdom to recognize the doors You open for us and the courage to walk through them in faith. May we, like the church in Philadelphia, remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that You are with us always. Amen.
-------------------------
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Click on the image to delve into the uplifting and soul-stirring devotional…
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