Part 1 – Embracing Life’s Challenges as Growth Opportunities

Learning to Climb Over Obstacles

Life is full of challenges that often seem like insurmountable barriers. These roadblocks can leave us feeling stuck, frustrated, or even defeated. But what if the roadblocks we encounter aren’t meant to stop us but to grow us?

Watching my son Isaiah learn to crawl taught me an important life lesson. At first, the soft barriers we placed around him—pillows, cushions, or small obstacles—were enough to make him stop in his tracks. From his perspective, they were mountains he couldn’t overcome. But over time, as Isaiah grew stronger and gained confidence, something shifted. Those same obstacles became opportunities. Instead of stopping, he started climbing. What once seemed impossible became just another challenge he could tackle.

Isn’t that a lot like life? When we face obstacles, our initial reaction is often to stop and look for another way around. We convince ourselves that the barrier means we’ve hit a dead end. But what if the very thing in our way is the thing that will grow us? What if God placed it there not to block us but to strengthen us?

Consider this: Each roadblock we encounter is an opportunity to mature. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” God doesn’t promise a path without challenges, but He does promise to give us the strength to overcome them. Every obstacle is an invitation to trust Him more, to lean into His power, and to discover the potential He’s placed within us.

If you’re facing a challenge right now, ask yourself: Is this a stopping point, or is it an opportunity to grow? Remember, roadblocks are not the end of the journey—they are the beginning of growth. With God, no obstacle is too big, and no challenge is without purpose. Climb over what’s in your way, and watch as God builds your strength for even greater victories ahead.