Success blockers

Read | Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne. (Hebrews 12:1, 2 NLT)

While everyone wants to feel like a success, many—if not most—people do not see themselves that way. You may find this surprising, but a lot of Christians don't consider themselves successful either.

One culprit is fear. We may think we lack ability or have insufficient experience to achieve a task God has given us. As a result, fear can become a dominant emotion. Instead of seeing ourselves as moving forward, we begin to visualize our failure. Might that be the case with you when you picture your future?

Another block to success is doubt. It makes us question our thinking, our God-given abilities, and even His direction. If we do not know what the Lord says in His Word, we may find it hard to understand what He is asking of us personally. Doubt can cause us to question whether or not the direction is from Him. Furthermore, past failures and guilt over prior mistakes can create doubt, just as critical comments from others can impede us. Has doubt slipped into your thinking?

Success can also be hindered by the excuses we offer for not doing what God has asked. Adam blamed Eve; Eve blamed the serpent. Moses said he was not good at public speaking. What excuses have you been offering lately?

There are ways to remove success blockers. Counter your fear with the truth of Scripture; remember you have received a spirit of power from the Lord (2 Tim. 1:7); and invest time in deepening your relationship with God so you will believe His instructions and obey.

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