Why God closes doors

A few years ago, I was eagerly pursuing a dream job. I had all the qualifications, the experience, and I thought this was the perfect next step in my career. However, despite my efforts and prayers, the door to this opportunity slammed shut. I felt confused and disappointed. This experience helped me understand why God closes doors, emphasizing the importance of patience and faith in His divine timing.

But as time passed, that closed door redirected me to a different path that fulfilled my career aspirations and aligned more closely with God’s purpose for my life.

Finding strength in God’s promises

Think of a gardener who prunes the branches of a plant to promote better growth. The act of cutting might seem harmful at first, but it is essential for the health and vitality of the plant. Similarly, God sometimes closes doors in your life, not to harm you, but to ensure you grow stronger and align more closely with His divine will.

When faced with closed doors, it’s crucial to remember that God promises to be with you and support you. Isaiah 41:10 assures you that God will uphold you with His righteous right hand. This promise is evident in the life of Paul and his companions, who were prevented by the Holy Spirit from preaching in Asia (Acts 16:6-7). 

This divine intervention wasn’t a rejection but a redirection towards a more fruitful ministry. By trusting in God’s promises, you can find the strength to navigate through any closed door, knowing He is always with you.

Redirection to better opportunities

Closed doors can also serve as a means of redirecting you to better opportunities. Joseph’s life is a good example. Sold into slavery and imprisoned unjustly, it seemed as if all doors were shut for him. 

However, these closed doors were part of God’s plan to elevate Joseph to a position of power in Egypt, ultimately saving many lives during a famine (Genesis 50:20). God’s redirection often leads you to places where you can fulfill your greater purpose.

Strengthening faith and dependence on God

Closed doors often lead you to rely more on God and deepen your faith. The Israelites faced a closed door when they were trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army. It was in this desperate situation that they witnessed God’s miraculous deliverance, parting the Red Sea for their escape (Exodus 14:13-14). 

This event strengthened their faith and dependence on God. Similarly, when doors close in your life, it can be an opportunity to trust more deeply in God’s provision and guidance.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom and guidance in my life. Help me to trust Your plans, even when doors close. Teach me to see Your hand at work in every situation, and give me the faith to believe that You are directing my steps for my good and Your glory. Strengthen my trust in You and help me to grow in patience and humility as I wait on Your perfect timing. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Verse to reflect upon

Proverbs 16:9 ( (NIV): “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

Weekly challenge

Identify a closed door in your life and spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal His purpose behind it. Reflect on how this experience can help you grow in faith and trust in His plans.

Application questions

1. Can you recall a time when God closed a door in your life? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

2. How can trusting in God’s protection change your perspective on closed doors?

3. In what ways can waiting on God’s timing help you grow spiritually and personally?

4. How can you cultivate a heart of patience and humility when facing closed doors?

God has a perfect plan for your life

Closed doors are not a sign of God’s rejection but rather His redirection, protection, and preparation. Trusting in God’s sovereignty and wisdom allows you to find peace and purpose in every situation. Rely on God and seek His guidance to navigate through life’s challenges with confidence.