Window definition : (noun) A window is any frame with openings spanning its edges that admit light or air into an enclosure, usually by means of sliding panels that may be opened and closed to admit light and air as required. These may also be moveable.
It’s tempting to cling to this age-old saying when one door closes; however, we should remember its limitations before basing our lives around it.
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What is the meaning of this cliche?
Cliche is the term given to phrases or ideas that have become so overused as to lose their original meaning. Cliche can often be used negatively as an insulting term to refer to something repetitive or dull; but it can also refer to something which has lost its authenticity due to overuse. Cliches can also serve as useful communication tools as they enable us to draw on familiar concepts when explaining unfamiliar ones.
People often turn to this phrase when experiencing disappointment; it gives them hope that no matter what may occur, God will always find a better solution. Unfortunately, this cliche can also be misleading; it might lead us to believe that He always wants the best outcomes, when this may not always be true, and may also mislead us into thinking doors never close permanently as opposed to biblical reality.
Realistically, when doors close they may never reopen again. Unfortunately, many situations exist where doors close for good without another window opening up; this doesn’t indicate God punishing you but rather indicates your circumstances have altered and no longer necessitate going through that particular doorway.
Another problem with this cliche is its incitement to passivity when dealing with life’s difficulties. It implies we should just wait passively until a better opportunity presents itself without exerting effort of our own. While waiting can be beneficial, taking proactive steps in the meantime is more effective; according to biblical principles we should seek advice from mature believers when making difficult decisions is advised by scripture.
If you find yourself facing disappointment through closed doors, take some time to pray and reflect upon why these doors were shut in your face. Ask God what He might be teaching through this experience and trust He will guide your steps in the right direction. For your convenience we have provided this list of scriptures relating to closed doors which you can use as prayerful reflection prompts or Bible journaling pages.
What does it mean when God closes a door?
The Bible describes God in many ways. He’s often described as being a guide, promise-keeper and provider – all qualities He fulfills abundantly! Have you ever considered how He acts as doorkeeper too? Doorkeeping serves a practical function – providing passageway between rooms or stages of life – but can also stand as a symbol for change or opportunity.
“When God closes a door, He opens a window” has become such a beloved expression that it provides comfort in times of difficulty and encourages us to remain hopeful for better things ahead. Unfortunately, however, despite its popularity this phrase does not represent biblical providence accurately or is misleading due to its simplistic interpretation.
When we witness God closing doors in our lives, it’s important to keep in mind that He may not simply do so to bless or give us more opportunities; He could be protecting or leading in another direction instead. If it remains unclear why a particular door has closed on you, prayerfully ask Him what He’s trying to tell you.
One effective way of understanding what God is telling us through closed doors is to look back through history. One earliest example would be the Garden of Eden where Adam and Eve broke God’s will by disobeying him and were barred from reentering Paradise after they committed sin against Him.
Other examples include Abraham and Sarah who were unable to have children (closed door), David being taken by his brothers into enemy territory to serve with Philistines (closed door), and Joseph being imprisoned for many years (also closed). But eventually all these individuals received open doors to success in life.
So the next time someone suggests “God closes doors and opens windows”, keep this saying in mind – as this cliched saying can lead to despair during difficult times. Instead, turn to scripture for guidance and hope through these closing doors in your life. Ask God for direction on what your next step should be!
What does it mean when God opens a window?
“When God closes a door, He opens a window” has long been used as an encouraging proverb, offering hope that He will always provide for our needs. Unfortunately, though this statement might sound comforting in theory, there may be times when this statement doesn’t hold true – some doors may remain permanently shut without an opening ever materialising for them to pass through. However, in these instances it’s important to remember that He remains present with us always and works towards our good no matter the circumstance we find ourselves in.
At times we may think God had answered our prayers and was leading us in the right direction, only to discover later that the door had closed again. While this can be hard to understand when others seem to benefit from what was lost to us, remember that He knows exactly what you need!
Sometimes God closes a door because He wants you to grow in a different direction than what that opportunity would allow, or perhaps He’s protecting you from something which could endanger either yourself or someone else.
Sometimes doors close because it isn’t the appropriate time or season for an opportunity. God knows best and will open it when He feels it’s appropriate.
So the next time you encounter an open or closed door in life, remember that God is still leading and He has not forgotten about you. He loves you more than anything you could imagine! Trust in Him and remain true to Him! Have you experienced any closed doors in your life and how did you cope? Share your story in the comments – we love hearing from our community members!
What does it mean when God closes a window?
God may close doors that you want to enter or open windows where you wish to remain; either way, He is in charge and He will work it all for good – whether you are seeking employment, marriage or school entry; doors will open and close accordingly. Sometimes these occurrences might seem senseless at the time; yet by trusting in Him you will know He has a plan and is working things out in His perfect timing for your own benefit.
Teach your children that when God closes a door for us it doesn’t necessarily mean He is closing it for good – He could have something greater in mind for us than we could ever dream.
“When God closes a door, He opens a window” has long been used as an encouraging aphorism in times of trouble or disappointment. Although not found directly within scripture itself, this saying can help believers depend on Him during difficult periods.
