There are many different meanings associated with a door, from a physical barrier to a spiritual metaphor.
Physically, the threshold of every home is graced with a door. An opening through which one enters one’s home welcomes visitors, gathers, rests, relaxes, and goes about daily life.
Spiritually, our hearts are spiritual door openings to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Having an open heart demonstrates our commitment to serving God and accomplishing His plans.
It is said, “When one door closes, another one opens.” In other words, God closes and opens opportunities that allow us to do His work and fulfill His will. Yet, there is actually no literal reference to this in the Bible. It was a quote from Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone, in 1877.
But do know the second half of this quote? It is, “But we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.”
The closed door could mean that a particular period of time or work has come to an end, it’s not in line with God’s will, or it’s time to take advantage of a new opportunity.
Why do we tend to keep looking at a closed door?
- We mourn the loss of our completed work.
- There has been no replacement for the closed door for too long.
- Excuses hinder our ability to open a new door.
- New opportunities have lost their appeal to us.
Even though it does not refer directly to the Bible, this quote contains spiritual lessons we can apply to our lives.
Jesus used the door as a metaphor in His teachings to help others learn about Him and understand His purpose. Jesus tells us in John 10:7, “He is the door of the sheep.” He is the only way to Salvation and eternal life, as well as the Shepherd of His sheep.
By opening our hearts, we allow the Holy Spirit’s promptings and God’s purpose for us to be revealed. I love how the apostle John wrote in John 16:13,” But, when He, the Spirit of truth comes, He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak, and He will disclose to you what is to come.”
Be guided by the Lord and let Him reveal His plans for you, Jeremiah 29:11. Embrace what is not productive for you or against His will. Instead, seek to do good deeds, Isaiah 1:16.
Trust God to teach you the way, for the psalmist declares, “This God, His way is perfect, Psalm 18:30.
Take time to reflect on these passages and prepare yourself to walk through the open door God has for you.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek His will in all you do,
and He will show you which path to take.
Proverbs 16:3
Commit your actions to the Lord,
and your plans will succeed.
Proverbs 32:8
The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.”
Psalm 33:11
But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever;
his intentions can never be shaken.
Instead of focusing on your closed doors, look forward to the new opportunities to serve the Lord that will open up in your life.
Consider starting a Free Bible Study today and begin your pursuit of opening the doors the Lord has for you.