Walk Through the Door

The only way to learn strong faith is to endure great trials. - George Mueller

As Paul concludes his first letter to the church at Corinth, he makes an odd and fascinating statement. “A great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.” (I Corinthians 16:9)

I enjoy doors of opportunity opening to me; however, I try to avoid people who oppose me. Somehow, the two often walk hand in hand. Our greatest opportunities can come with significant obstacles. Nothing good comes easily.

Paul didn’t seem surprised by the pushback. He wasn’t intimidated by the opposition and didn’t change his message. He faced the opposition, honored God, and shared the gospel that God had entrusted to him.

Obstacles can provide hidden blessings. Paul did much of his great writing in prison. He was beaten, betrayed, threatened, abandoned, and stoned, but started churches throughout the Mediterranean world. That’s a lot of effective work and a great deal of serious opposition.

Great doors of effective work are open to all of us. The opposition that awaits may be rejection, ridicule, derision, significant sacrifice, or even physical harm. The question is always one of courage. Like Paul, trust God and courageously walk through whatever great door of effective work opens for you, despite the opposition.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries