Have you ever felt certain that God was opening a door to a new relationship, opportunity, or move of the Spirit, then suddenly that door closed and left you wondering where God was? Why did it close? Did you not hear clearly? Was it all a mistake or misunderstanding?

I recently faced one of those closed doors, and it shut hard. While I had conflicting emotions regarding the path I felt God leading me toward, I was certain He was in the details as all the plans were working effortlessly toward the end result. But before all the Ts were crossed and the Is dotted, the plan blew up. I was blindsided, and suddenly everything needed to shift, to reverse, to undo the many plans that had been made.

At first, my emotions took over, and I panicked, calling everyone involved and pleading for them to reverse the decisions they had made in recent weeks. I was confused, distraught, and a bit angry because I did not understand what was happening and why. Can you relate?

What door were you about to walk through when, all at once, everything changed?

How did you process that change?

Who did you turn to to help undo the plans you were convinced God had ordained?

How did God lead you through the confusion to a new place, season, goal, or dream?

The ways of God can sometimes be difficult to discern. In my case, everything was moving forward smoothly, or so I thought. It was a big door too. A thick, giant double door with brass handles and hinges. It was my heart’s desire. Then, all at once, it was gone.

When the door slams shut and our hearts hurt, it is normal to feel anger and sadness as we navigate a new path and pray for answers. I must admit, I hesitated but asked aloud one morning, “Why, God? Why did you let this happen? I know I’m not supposed to question You, and I am truly trusting that You have a good thing for us in all this mess. But this morning, I am hurting and sad, and I just need to be honest and ask why. Would you please calm my heart and speak to me? Help me to understand and rest in You.”

I waited. And breathed deep. And listened for the voice that I long to hear each morning when I meet with God in my quiet place. Candle burning. Spirit open. Listening… for Him.

As I waited, these words from the Word of God came to me:

“Do not let your heart be troubled, and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
“(I) will accomplish (my) purpose for (you)” (Psalm 138:8).
“Trust in (me) with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge (me) and (I) will direct your steps” (Prov. 3:5-6).
“For I know the plans I have for you…. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer. 29:11).
“Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

Deep breaths brought peace that had eluded me for days. My favorite days are when God is so near, I can hear His still, small voice speaking over me. I thanked Him for hearing my cry and answering in such a loving way and affirmed His promises and prayed,

“I will not let my heart be troubled, nor will I be afraid.”
“I trust that You will accomplish Your purpose for me, for my marriage, and my daughters.”
“I will trust in You with all my heart. I will acknowledge You and follow as you direct my steps.”
“I am grateful for Your plans to prosper me, not to harm me, plans to give me hope and a future.”
“I will rest and be still in Your presence, LORD, for You are always with me.”

Even when plans go well and we are convinced that God is in them, doors sometimes close for reasons only the LORD knows. Yet, we praise Him because we trust that He has a better way, and He will lead us to a more satisfying place.

My heart still hurts as I walk through each day, but the pain is lessening as my joy increases and I am filled with excitement over new plans, new goals, a new season of spiritual awakening and nearness to God.

If one door shuts, you can be certain God has a better door for you to open.

Grieve what you must, but press into the joy that is coming. He will never leave you alone nor allow you to be lost in hope deferred. His idea of the greatest blessing for you just might look a bit different from your expectations.

Trust in Him with all your heart, and you will be greatly blessed. That’s a promise of God that will never change.

May the God of love and peace speak over you today as you plan, prepare, and invite Him into your own goals and dreams.

Feel free to share your open doors with me. I would be honored to pray for you!

Grateful to spend this time with you.