Ephphatha: The Mystery of Open Doors | Brother Charlie Shamp
In the scriptures, there are numerous instances where the concept of open doors is mentioned. One such reference is found in Revelation 3:7-8, where the Lord speaks to the church in Philadelphia, saying, "These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut." This idea of an open door is also echoed in Matthew 7:7-8, where Jesus says, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." These passages reveal a mystery surrounding the concept of open doors.
The mystery of open doors lies in the divine authority and sovereignty of God. It is a concept that transcends human understanding and operates on a spiritual level. Open doors represent opportunities, blessings, and breakthroughs that God provides to His people. However, the timing and manner in which these doors open remain a mystery, as they are ultimately under the control of God alone. Through examining biblical examples and personal experiences, we can gain insights into the nature of open doors and how they manifest in our lives.
1. Divine Timing: The mystery of open doors lies in the perfect timing of God. In the book of Genesis, Joseph experienced a series of closed doors before finally being elevated to a position of power in Egypt. His journey from being sold into slavery by his brothers to becoming Pharaoh's right-hand man was orchestrated by God's divine timing. Joseph's open door came at the appointed time, aligning with God's greater purpose of saving his family and the nation of Israel from famine.
2. Unforeseen Opportunities: Open doors often present themselves in unexpected ways. The story of Ruth in the Old Testament is a prime example. After the death of her husband, Ruth chose to remain loyal to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and accompanied her back to Bethlehem. Through a series of events, Ruth found herself gleaning in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy landowner who later became her kinsman-redeemer. This unexpected opportunity led to her marriage to Boaz and ultimately became a part of the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ.
3. Personal Faith and Persistence: The mystery of open doors also involves an individual's faith and persistence. In the New Testament, the story of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8 illustrates this concept. Despite facing rejection from an unjust judge, the widow persisted in seeking justice. Eventually, her persistence paid off, and the judge granted her request. Jesus uses this parable to teach his disciples about the importance of persistent prayer and faith. It reveals that open doors can be obtained through unwavering faith and perseverance.
Ephphatha, the mystery of open doors, is a concept that highlights the divine authority and sovereignty of God. It represents opportunities, blessings, and breakthroughs that are provided by God at His perfect timing. Open doors often come unexpectedly and require personal faith and persistence. Through biblical examples and personal experiences, we can see that open doors are not merely coincidences but divine interventions orchestrated by God for His purposes. As we seek God and trust in His timing, we can rest assured that He will open doors that no one can shut, leading us to a life of abundance and fulfillment.
-Brother Charlie Shamp