A Brief Note on Stumbling Blocks

The phrase stumbling blocks means an obstacle in the route of achieving one’s goal. A stumbling block is anything that prevents you from accomplishing your objectives. A stumbling block is an impediment that, if not watched carefully, can trip us up or knock us off balance.

Obstacles are always waiting for us to step on and make us stumble in life. But stumbling on every problem is not the proper way to set a benchmark in life. Using those stumbling blocks as stepping stones will help one overcome the obstacles in the path.

Origin of the metaphor stumbling block

The origin of the metaphor stumbling block traces back to the Bible. In the Bible, the phrase stumbling blocks mean one’s behaviour that can lead other people towards sins or bad behaviour.

 According to the Septuagint Psalms 140:9, “An obstacle leading to destructive behaviour is referred to as a stumbling block.”

According to Leviticus 19:14, the expression stumbling block means: “Do not put obstacles in the way of the blind and do not make fun of the deaf, fear God.”

Paul in 1 Corinthians 8 says, “If a weak man were led to sin against his conscience, due to another person’s liberty in Christ, then the other person has become a stumbling block for the weak.”

Stumbling blocks that can impede our growth

Here are some stumbling blocks we face daily but cannot often recognise.

• We routinely fail to understand the meaning of real happiness. Chasing after what others think is happiness will not help us reach where we want to. We are deceiving ourselves, and we are settling for false happiness or pleasure.
• The biggest stumbling block to success is comparing our lives, relationships, and even imperfections to others. Social media is the greatest lie ever; it just shows what’s perfect.
• Doubting oneself is a big holdback. One should have self-confidence. Every day should be filled with goals, progress and accomplishments. Negative thoughts shouldn’t consume your mind.
• We often regret the actions we did or decisions that we made in the past. We keep overthinking it, but that does not change the past actions. We don’t have to carry bad memories. Instead, we must convert past experiences into lessons that will remain with us as guides.

How can we overcome the stumbling blocks in life?

 It is vital to keep striving every single day for progress. Achieving goals and progressing are significant achievements that can lead to a better life. Even small wins can lead us towards a better life if they help us move forward.

• Think positive, be optimistic.
• Look for new opportunities while building on your strengths – If you’re naturally talented at something, but your work is unsuited to your talents, you’re wasting your potential. Several assessment tools are available to help you identify your natural strengths and what you excel at.  
• Life is a journey, so have fun and enjoy the ride – Life can be challenging and stressful, so it’s important to take care of your body, mind, and spirit to relax and rejuvenate yourself.  
• Don’t stress about the past – Life events and personal issues can hinder our ability to recognise our potential. It is important for us to learn from our past but not stay trapped by it. The past cannot be altered, but the future is within our control.
• Have the power of perspective – All of us know that life does not always go smoothly. Our way of thinking, feeling, and acting regarding life’s challenges makes a big difference in the end. Be sure to consider the consequences and make informed decisions.
• All it takes is asking the right people – If we are honest with ourselves and seek help when needed, we shouldn’t feel alone, and we can get support through a group of trusted advisors.
• Have faith in yourself and try never to give up – If you are still alive, your purpose hasn’t yet been fulfilled. Discovering what your true purpose is and living it to the very end is a great adventure.

Avoid being a stumbling block for others

Biblically, we can prevent faith from flourishing when we speak or act in ways that plant doubt over faith in God. If a weak man were made to sin against his conscience due to another person’s liberty in Christ, then the other person has become a stumbling block for the weak.

Therefore, we are also guilty of sin if what we do leads others to behave in ways they believe to be sinful. Neither should you encourage people to do what they believe isn’t moral or holy!

Stumbling blocks in life can be turned into strong stepping stones

• The truth of the matter is that while stumbling blocks may be unpleasant, and most of us would enjoy avoiding them, they never restore you to the same person you were before. They make you stronger.
• Healing always takes time.
• Mistakes are the best teachers. Learn life lessons. It is through making mistakes that you learn what is important to you, what you enjoy, and what you don’t need. Shifting your mindset allows you to see that mistakes are only lessons and opportunities for learning.

Conclusion

Stumbling blocks are the hindrances in your path to success. We have all had or experienced them at some point in our lives. It is a barrier to moving forward that is either created by us, imposed upon us, or passed on to us by others. Do not let them block your efforts towards your destination. Making progress is essential to living a full and fulfilling life. Reaching your goals and making achievements, even small victories, are important. Every day should be filled with goals, progress and accomplishments. Make positive use of the stumbling blocks, and convert them into strong stepping stones with your self-confidence.