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When Your Plans Are Hindered

For we wanted to come to you - certainly I, Paul, did, again and again - but Satan stopped us. 1 Thessalonians 2:18

Are you pursuing something you believe to be God's will, yet one obstacle after another seems to keep you from accomplishing it? You're not alone! The Apostle Paul experienced this too. The word 'hindered' comes from the Greek word egkopto. It was used to describe a road so deteriorated that it was impassable. Ever driven down a road like that, only to have to turn around, go back and find another route to get to where you wanted to go?

But the word egkopto was also used in an athletic sense; it portrays a moment when one runner comes along side another and literally elbows him out of the race. Clearly Paul understood Satan’s tactics; not only will he put roadblocks in your way, he'll also try to elbow you out of the race. So, this word 'hindered' means 'an impasse so severe that it prohibits you from going where you need to go, or an aggressor who elbows you off course in your spiritual race.'

If this describes what's going on in your life today, don't despair, the story isn't over! In time the way opened up for Paul to get to the Thessalonians and it'll open up for you too! The devil never has the last word on anything, and he isn't going to have the last word in your situation either. Regardless of what he's tried to do, remember, all that God has promised you will come to pass, if you just keep trusting Him with all your heart.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to rely on the promise that your will and your way always win out. Get me back on course in my life and do not let the enemy elbow me out! In Jesus’ Name, Amen