So, the Lord scattered them from there over all the earth, and they stopped building the city. That is why it was called Babel, because there the Lord confused the speech of all the world. From there the Lord scattered them over all the earth.
Genesis 11:8-9
God stops the people of Babel and their project with two punitive measures. First, he confuses their language and then he scatters them over all the earth. These punitive measures are acts of mercy that keep them from going down the wrong path.
God sometimes thwarts our efforts out of love and mercy. We may be pursuing a path that is selfish and sinful or just not the best for us and so God thwarts us so that we will change direction. The obstacles get our attention and help us to reverse course.
What obstacles are you facing right now? Are they things to work through or do you sense that God has allowed them to get your attention because you are working against him? Put the issue before God and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to the truth.