For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.  -- Jeremiah 29:11

Wholeheartedly following after God can be such an adventure! God doesn't want you to live a mediocre life. He wants you to claim the wonderful promises He has given you... promises for a hope and a future.

Now, when you do choose to wholeheartedly follow the Lord, you will face battles in your life. You will face some opposition. But rest assured... with God's help, you can overcome it!

The first opposition you may face when you follow after Christ is the opposition thrown at you by your friends. They may tell you, "You can't do it" or "It's not worth it." Some friends might even doubt you. But some friends will stand with you... which is why it is so important to choose your friends wisely.

Time is another obstacle to overcome when following after God. It can be so hard waiting on the Lord, but you have to remember that His timing is perfect.

God could be delaying the delivery of His promise to you in order to strengthen and grow your faith and commitment to Him. He knows when you will be ready! Isaiah 40:31 is a great reminder of the strength that comes in waiting on the Lord: "But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

It's my prayer you will decide today to follow wholeheartedly after God. And as you do, remember that every obstacle is an opportunity for you to grow more like Christ. And remember that if you keep your eyes focused on the promises and purposes that God has for your life, you can overcome anything through Him!

Every obstacle you face as a Christian is an opportunity for you to grow more like Christ.