Charting Your Course- Navigating Life’s Headwinds
Pastor Ryan
5 minute read
Nothing surprises God, but plenty of things surprise us.
If you’re anything like I am, you often encounter headwinds—those challenging and opposing forces that push against your plans and dreams. Maybe you’re currently in that season, as I am. I want to share with you the answers to those trials, as they’re found in Scripture. The account of the Apostle Paul, as found in the Book of Acts, describes the headwinds he faced on his way to Rome. These headwinds offer you valuable insight for navigating your own challenges. Here are seven takeaways:
1. Headwinds Often Follow a Big Vision
You’ve received a divine calling or prophetic word to follow your dreams and purpose in life. These are monumental visions, filled with your own destiny. Yet, it’s crucial to understand that significant visions are often followed by significant headwinds. Challenges and opposition can arise when you’re moving in the direction of your God-given calling. Remember that God’s calling on your life is greater than any headwind you may face.
2. Headwinds Can Make it Difficult to Stay on Course
You’ve had moments when everything seemed favorable, but then headwinds disrupted your course. You’ve sailed through adversity, landing at unexpected destinations. Sometimes, headwinds make it challenging to stay on course. They can lead you to unexpected places and disrupt your plans. During these times, it’s vital to remain steadfast and trust that God is still in control.
3. Headwinds Can Cost You A Lot of Time
As you’ve battled challenges, precious time was lost. When you encounter opposition and difficulties, it can feel like time is slipping away. Family troubles, financial strain, and spiritual plateaus can all seem all-consuming in moments, but remember, those moments are smaller than they often feel. Yet, it’s essential to remember that God’s timing is perfect. Even during delays and setbacks, He is orchestrating every detail according to His plan.
4. Headwinds Require Godly Wisdom
You’ve faced moments when you needed to make difficult decisions amidst headwinds. Seeking godly wisdom became essential. Sometimes, you had to make tough choices, even if they seemed contrary to popular opinion. Trust that God will guide you through the storm.
5. Headwinds Require Mid-Course Adjustments
In the midst of life’s storms, you’ve learned to make adjustments. You’ve thrown excess baggage overboard and taken actions to stabilize your ship. When headwinds hit, it’s critical to be flexible and willing to make mid-course adjustments. These adaptations can help you weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side. Paul watched as precious merchant cargo was tossed over the side, but knew his destination was secure.
6. Headwinds Can Rob You or Give You Hope
After many days of enduring the storm, your hope was waning, but in the darkest hour, an angel encouraged you. Headwinds can either steal your hope or strengthen it. In your trials, remember that God is with you, and He often brings hope when it seems all is lost.
7. Headwinds Cause The Real Leaders to Rise Up
You’ve seen real leaders emerge during crises. In challenging times, real leaders rise to the occasion. When facing headwinds, remember that God equips and empowers leaders to guide others through the storm. The Roman guard was ready to kill all the prisoners to keep them from escaping, yet Paul showed true leadership, assuring someone in authority that God was in control.
8. Headwinds Will Cause You to Trust God Completely
As the ship grounded, everyone had to trust God completely for their safety. In life’s headwinds, you often reach a point where your only option is to trust God fully. It’s in these moments that your faith grows and you experience His miraculous intervention.
9. Headwinds Will Cause Your Faith to Grow
On the island of Malta, Paul’s faith was on full display as he ministered healing. He even survived a bite from a venomous snake! In the midst of headwinds, your faith can flourish. God can use your challenges to bring about spiritual growth and revival in your life.