In today’s economic landscape, cost-cutting measures and efficiency drives remain primary factors behind job losses. While this economic realignment takes time to shape, Christians may find themselves wondering how to respond when God closes one door and opens another.
As professionals, our lives ultimately represent the sum of these choices. An open door is an opportunity provided by God to act both with Him and for Him. However, we can mistakenly choose the “wrong door” when making hasty decisions without the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Satan, the deceiver, places attractive doors of temptation in our path. Yet God wastes no trial. The Holy Spirit convicts us and transforms even our “wrong door” experiences into opportunities that shape our hearts and build Christ-like character.
Crossing the threshold of God’s chosen door requires both discernment and faith. Remember that God advances us—we do not advance ourselves. Jesus warns of the enemy’s traps: “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore, be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16, NKJV). This wisdom requires: self-awareness of our strengths and weaknesses, understanding our passions, scars, and partnerships, and having an awareness of the world’s reality. Jesus also encourages the innocence of doves—a child-like openness to God’s leading.
God understands the agony of closed doors. “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends” (Revelation 3:20, NLT). God gives each person the key to their heart’s door but will never force His way in. Why does God close doors? Several reasons may apply to us: something better awaits beyond the current situation, God’s sovereign plans differ from our understanding, what we desire may not align with God’s best for us, and adversity creates opportunities for growth and perseverance.
There are two mindsets of closed-door people versus open-door people. Closed-door people typically show closed mindsets, fear-based decision making, and reluctance to trust God. Open-door people typically demonstrate open mindsets embracing uncertainty and trusting that God provides information on a need-to-know basis. There is an abundance mentality—blessed to bless others. They have a resilience against discouragement and have fewer regrets about paths not taken. They are action oriented rather than theoretical “what ifs” scenario. They feel comfortable with imperfection while remaining open to self-discovery.
God can open doors for us through the power of His Holy Spirit. John 16:13 comments on the Holy Spirit’s role, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” The Holy Spirit can open doors for us that we never considered. Prayer, reflection, and fasting could lead to God’s perfect timing when He opens a door.
Walking through God’s door requires faith expressed through abandoning old ways while embracing the excitement of new beginnings. There is steadfast belief in God’s trustworthy promises and commitment to the journey ahead, knowing “God will never leave us nor forsake us” (Hebrews 13:5). God is able. The journey isn’t about our greatness—it’s about the greatness of our God!
