6 Reasons You Might Be Stuck

What do I mean by "stuck?"

A lot people live stuck. Meaning they can't seem to move forward in any number of arenas in their life (Spiritual maturity; financial health; career goals; marital joy; ministry).

In this article, I share (6) reasons you might be stuck and I give some practical steps for taking ground. 

1. Your Character Needs a Tune Up.

Our gifts, calling and vocation are the outward and sometimes flashy things that everyone sees, like the body of a vehicle. But character is what's under the hood; it's who we are when no one is looking. Sometimes the holding pattern we experience is like a check engine light signaling to us that we need pull over, pop the hood and do some engine maintenance. God alone knows what's down the road in your life—including the increased pressures that come as your calling develops. It may be that the delay you're experiencing is actually His mercy keeping you from something He sees down the road, where failure is far more costly.

Click here for an assessment and some ideas for a tune-up.

2. You're Not Listening.

You've probably experienced how smart your smart phone is and it went something like this: You complimented your friends mustache and later that day when you opened Instagram, BOOM...a beard oil promotion pops up on your feed. Unfortunately we're not always as quick as our phones when it comes to picking up on the messages God sends to us for our growth. At times we reject His messages because we don't like the way in which it came or the messenger that delivered it. Other times we ignore the Spirit's nudges because we prefer to get there on our own terms. God is completely ok with keeping us in a holding pattern until we listen to His voice and cater to His desires. Have you seen a pattern of constructive feedback or criticism in your life? Consider for a moment that God might be in at least some of what has been said.

Click here for some pratical help to get your ear in the game. 

3. You Pass the Blame.

Humans are really good at the blame game. It's literally one humanity's first sins—“the women you gave me!”(Gen 3:12) We know how to point the finger, play the victim and give very convincing reasons for why we didn't show up, follow through and execute. At it's core, blame is a lack of personal ownership and it always keeps you locked in immaturity. Employers will tell you, no one wants employees who refuse to take responsibility for their mistakes—those employees suck. You alone are responsible for your decisions, even the things you to do in response to other people's foolish or hurtful actions. You're also the manager of your own schedule. You're not a victim of your schedule, you're the boss of it. Be an owner.

Click here for some tips for taking ownership.

4. You Need Some Navigation.

Consider how dependent we are on Apple/Google navigation tools to get where we need to go on a regular basis. We know where we need to be, but we don't know how to get there. We are reliant on guidance. Same is true for so much of life. If you find yourself stuck on the struggle bus, get off and ask for help. Pursue someone who has already been where you're going. Treat them to lunch, pick their brains for insight and implement the wisdom they share. Don't be afraid to pursue multiple mentors; it can be helpful to pursue mentors who have expertise specific to your varied needs.

5. You Need a New Vehicle.

What if your calling requires a an all-terrain vehicle but you're currently only riding a skateboard? Upgrade your vehicle and you'll find that more roads are accessible to you. This might mean a new organization, a new role or a new set of friendships. It's vital that your vehicle is suited for the route God has called you to take. Take some time to seriously consider this: How likely is it that the vehicle you're currently in can get you to the place God has set for you?

6. Timing.

There are times when the pause or delay you're experiencing is no fault of your own. You've worked every angle, overturned every rock and you're still...stuck. It may be that it's simply an issue of timing. Know that God's leadership is perfect and He is tending to every detail of your life. He is still at work, even when it seems like nothing is moving forward. Keep your eyes on Him. 

My eyes are ever toward the LORD, for he will pluck my feet out of the net (Psalm 25:15). 

ABOUT ADAM

Adam is a unique prophetic evangelist who equips everyday Jesus-followers to live authentic, New Testament Christianity, discovering their highest joy in the Great Commandment and their unique assignment in the Great Commission.

Adam is author of New Identity: 30 Days of Prayer for Spiritual Transformation and producer of multiple e-courses and podcasts. He and his wife, Jenny, have four children and reside in Franklin, TN. 

Adam is ordained through Messenger Fellowship, and is a member of the Luis Palau Association Global Network of Evangelists.