The Challenge of Closed Doors

By Mark Ruggerio     

Most people have heard the saying “When God closes a door, He opens another.” We here at Emmanuel are praying and waiting for the open doors He wants us to go through. A number of years ago, at the Church Planters to America Annual Retreat, I remember a theme that developed for the week from several of the messages and teaching times...”Just Do Something!” Meaning, when we are working, God will direct our paths. John MacArthur gives the example of an eighteen wheeler, that it’s much easier to steer a moving truck than one that is stationary.       

Over the past little while we’ve had some people who have tried to get out of their “comfort zones” and attempted to minister to people in the area. Most recently, a woman in our church had several contacts with individuals involved with the Reintegration Program. She has a desire to minister more to these families, and attempted to host a Valentine’s Day for the young families and others in the area. At the last minute, some people canceled for various reasons and the interest from families at the Center did not materialize. This resulted in the event not taking place.        

This event got me thinking about the concept of closed doors and the chal- lenge that they pose. It is very easy for people who are attempting to step out in ministry to get discouraged when things do not go as planned. Galatians 6:9 tells us, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Pray the people don’t get discouraged as they explore what the Lord would have them to do.      

A little over five years ago In Touch Ministries had a daily devotional that highlighted some truths I want to share here.

Closed doors prevent mistakes. Just because a path is clear doesn’t mean it’s the one God intends for us to follow. Sometimes we won’t have the information we need to make a wise decision, so He blocks the way. The Holy Spirit knows the whole road map for our life, so we should follow Him.

Closed doors redirect our walk. God won’t leave a willing servant with nothing to do. Closed doors can result in better fruit, more satisfaction, and greater glory for Him.                               

Closed doors test faith and build perseverance. Waiting for the Lord is hard, but it’s a means by which we can learn wisdom, patience, and trust.                                                             

Closed doors buy us time. We aren’t always as prepared as we’d like to think. God may temporarily hold shut an opportunity for service until we’re ready.                                                                     

I pray that we all are actively looking for His direction in our lives for His path is perfect. If we stay in His will and on His path, then as believers we will surely live a life that is satisfying, serving, and bringing glory to God.  

Mark Ruggerio