6/12 Daily in the Word

The Hinges of Opposition 1 Corinthians 16:8-9 Dr. Bob Jones, Sr. said, “The door to the room of success swings on the hinges of opposition.” Sometimes we mistakenly believe that because we are having difficulty we are on the wrong track. We think that if we were doing the right thing it would be easy. However the presence of obstacles and opposition does not mean that we are doing wrong; in fact, that can even be a sign that we are close to seeing wonderful things happen. Russell Conwell, a Baptist pastor in Philadelphia, was the author of one of the best-selling books of the 1800s called Acres of Diamonds. In it Conwell told the story of a man obsessed with finding diamonds. He sold his home and travelled the world for years in a futile search. Meanwhile the buyer of the man’s property discovered one of the richest diamond mines in the world on that land. Too often we dream of greener pastures or easier paths when what we need to do is just persist in doing right where we are. It is said that the great missionary David Livingstone received a letter from a young man who wanted to come and join his work. “Please tell me the easiest way to get to Africa to join,” he wrote.” Livingstone replied, “I am not interested in someone who is looking for the easiest way.” The Christian life is described in Scripture as both a war and a long distance race. Success at what God has called us to do requires struggle, intensity, and the commitment to overcome obstacles. If you are facing opposition today, rejoice—that may be the best sign yet that victory is close at hand. Today's Rooted Principle: Do not allow any opposition to deter you from doing what is right.