Overcoming Hindrances To God's Blessings Series

As believers, we often wonder why we're not experiencing the fullness of God's blessings in our lives. We pray, fast, and serve, yet seem to be stuck in a rut. The Bible reveals that there are specific hindrances that can block God's blessings, and it's crucial to identify and overcome them.

1. Unconfessed Sin and A Barrier to God's Presence

Psalm 66:18 says, "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me." Sin creates a spiritual barrier, separating us from God's presence and hindering our prayers. King David's experience is a great example. His adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah brought severe consequences, including the death of their child (2 Samuel 11-12). David's repentance and confession restored his relationship with God, but the consequences of his sin remained.

2. Lack of Faith and Doubting God's Goodness

James 1:6-7 warns, "A doubting person... should not expect to receive anything from the Lord." Faith is the channel through which God releases blessings. Abraham's story is a great illustration of faith in action. Despite his doubts, God credited his faith as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). When we trust God's goodness and promises, we position ourselves to receive His blessings.

3. Disobedience to God's Word and Ignoring Instructions

Deuteronomy 28:1-2 says, "If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands... all these blessings will come on you and overtake you." Obedience is key to receiving God's blessings. Saul's story serves as a warning. His disobedience to God's command cost him his kingdom (1 Samuel 15). Let's prioritize obedience, like Mary, who said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38).

4. Unforgiveness: Bitterness Blocks Blessings

Mark 11:25 says, "And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trings." Holding grudges and bitterness blocks God's blessings and even our prayers. Joseph's story is a powerful example of forgiveness. Despite being betrayed by his brothers, he forgave them and experienced God's blessings (Genesis 50:20).

5. Wrong Motives with Selfish Intentions

James 4:3 says, "You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend it on your passions." God's blessings are often withheld when our intentions are selfish or worldly. Solomon's request for wisdom pleased God, who granted him not only wisdom but also wealth and honor (1 Kings 3:10-15).

6. Prayerlessness / Neglect of God and Ignoring the Source

Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart." Closeness to God produces breakthrough. The early church's prayer meeting in Acts 4:31 is a great example. They prayed, and the building was shaken, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit.

In conclusion, let's examine our lives and remove these hindrances to God's blessings. Repent, trust, and obey, and experience the overflow of God's goodness. It's time to turn around and be recipients of divine blessings!