Roadblocks are obstructions that restrict us from traveling on roads we need or desire to go. While external (or physical) roadblocks can be frustrating and inconvenient, the roadblocks that are especially destructive are the internal ones that hinder our personal and spiritual growth.
External roadblocks hinder us in our travels, cause us to be re-routed, detoured, or completely blocked from getting to places we need to go. In much the same way, our internal roadblocks hinder us, cause us to be detoured, or completely block our progress, preventing us from accomplishing our objectives and ultimately keeping us from reaching our God-given potential.
While physical roadblocks are constructed by others to protect us from traveling down roads that could be harmful; internal roadblocks are ones we create as a result of learned beliefs or past pain.
Each of these four steps is critically important if we are going to embrace the true freedom of which the Apostle Paul speaks.
“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1
Christ purchased our freedom on the cross. Therefore, we are commanded, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to stand firm in times of trials and temptations, embrace true freedom, and let go of the shame, self-condemnation, and lies we have embraced for so long.
Step 1: Admit that we have roadblocks
To arrive at a place where we can admit that we have roadblocks, we must be willing to take an objective, honest look within ourselves and identify characteristics of our personalities that are hindering us in our ability to complete tasks, in our relationships with others, and in our ability to live in accordance to God’s call on our life. These characteristics often manifest themselves as fear, anger, and insecurities. We must understand that fear, anger, and insecurities are often deeply rooted in past life experiences, many times going back to our childhoods. Once we are able to uncover these hindering barriers in our lives, we must be honest with ourselves and others, admitting our struggles, this way we can bring them into the light where they can be healed.
Step 2: Identify the origin of our roadblocks
In this step, we must take the necessary journey of exploring our past in order to discover the birthplace of our roadblocks. The origin of our barriers is found in the midst of life experiences, where we have encountered the three types of sin: Sin by us; Sin against us; or Sin in the world. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Once we can identify the original experience that caused us to construct an internal barrier, we will be one step closer to living free from them.
Step 3: Choose to dismantle our roadblocks
In this step, we identify ways in which we go about removing these barriers from our lives so that we can freely embrace the abundant life that Christ offers. Often this step begins with forgiveness. Whether it is forgiveness for our selves, or others, until we have embraced forgiveness, we will continue to hold onto major parts of our roadblocks and will never be fully free to move forward.
Step 4: Move forward in freedom
We are now prepared to take a look at ways we can embrace our newfound freedom, walking through life unhindered, not blocked or detoured, and able to effectively accomplish objectives, enjoy healthy relationships, and ultimately reach our God-given potential.
After living for over forty years with the destructive nature of my roadblocks, I am now able to embrace healthier relationships, a closer walk with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and freedom from the self-condemnation, shame, and lies that Satan held over me for so long. These four steps have literally changed my life and my prayer is that by sharing my story, you too will begin your own personal journey of overcoming roadblocks.
What will you do today to begin your journey to overcome your roadblocks and walk fully in the true freedom Christ offers?
