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GOD OF THE DEAD END

A dead end is the end of the road and the beginning of questions. Think about the last time you drove up to a dead end in your car, or the last time you found one while you were walking somewhere. You probably said something like: I didn’t expect this! Or, Am I going the right way? Did I make a wrong turn? Or even, I was going this way because I was told to go this way. How come I get through?

There will be times when you will hit a dead end while trying to do God’s will. Ever find yourself saying things like: God, I thought you said you wanted us to adopt. . . Or, I thought it was your will for me to start this ministry. . .Or, I thought you were going to bless our marriage. . .Or even, God, we have done everything you said to do. How come it’s all falling apart?

In today’s video, Pastor Rick reads from 1 Corinthians 1:8-9. These words were originally written to a group of Christians who were facing a dead end. Ancient Corinth was the second largest city within the Roman Empire at the time. It was well known as the Las Vegas of its day. It was a melting pot of cultures and “gods,” and it was a city that seemed to celebrate immorality. What happened in Corinth, stayed in Corinth.

Paul planted a thriving church in Corinth, but in just a few short years, it split and split again over a host of issues discussed in the book. These Christians were at a dead end. This new religion, “Christianity,” was about to flame out in sin city.

In verses 4-7 of today’s Scripture reading Paul reminds the Corinthians of things that are true of you too (in paraphrase):

·God has given his grace to you.

·You have been enriched in every way, confirming your testimony about Christ in your life.

·You do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for Jesus to be revealed.

Dead ends are part of living a life of faith, but God has not left you unprepared. As it says in verse 9, “God is faithful.” By his grace, you are enriched and confirmed. You have every spiritual gift you need as you wait. God is with you and he will enable you, in his time, to overcome the dead end. Praise him!

Reflection

Think of a time when you hit a dead end while chasing a dream. What has God done in your life as a result of that experience?

Have you ever hit a dead end that, with hindsight, you are grateful was there to block your path? Why was that dead end ultimately a good thing?

Prayer

Dear Lord, may your will be done in my life when I reach a dead end. Help me through the hard questions and the frustration and pain. Knock down the roadblocks or help me find another way to achieve the dreams you’ve given me. Thank you for your grace and faithfulness. Amen.