Introduction

You tested an “Open Door.” You sought the guidance of the Lord through prayer and spiritual direction. You’re confident it is from the Lord. You now enter it by faith. But, suddenly, in the middle of the process, the situation begins to unravel. Something is wrong. Obstacles begin to arise that cause confusion and doubt in your heart. What do you do? What if an “Open Door” starts to be challenging? How do you respond?

Three Faithful Responses

1. Remember your identity and calling. (John 1:19-33) – God is calling you to represent Him as His beloved child. Your goal is not simply to benefit from an “Open Door.” You want God, your heavenly Father, to be glorified. He is more concerned about who you are becoming. Your response to the situation must be based on your secure identity in Christ, not what others think about you.
2. Reframe your view of success. (John 1:35-37; 3:26-30) – Sometimes our idea of success gets in the way of what God wants to accomplish through us. We must reframe our idea of success. It’s not about outward appearances or false attachments. It’s about the kingdom of God. What is important is that His will is done, not our will is done.
3. Remain faithful until the end. (Matthew 11:2-11) – When God gives us an “Open Door,” we must enter it by faith and finish it by faith, regardless of the circumstances along the way or the final results. Sometimes, we may have an insignificant role, or maybe there is suffering and persecution involved. What is important is that we remain faithful no matter what happens.

Conclusion

1. Main Idea: “Our faithful responses are more important than our challenging circumstances.”
2. Don’t judge the “Open Door” or yourself just because there are challenges.
3. Give thanks to God in the midst of your challenges as you enter into His “Open Doors.”

Discussion

1. How do you usually respond when you’re facing challenges during “Open Doors”?
2. What have you learned today about being faithful in your responses?
3. What would you do differently next time?