We live in a time that is centered on comfort and convenience. Some of us don't like being challenged- it's uncomfortable! Some times we fear challenges because we don't feel we can live up to what we're being asked to do.
MARK 12:30
This scripture leaves us with nothing left after we've given to God! That's alot to ask of us. But being challenged by this is going to push us to do things we wouldn't usually feel we were capable of doing.
PHILIPPIANS 4:11-13 says that we are fully able to give everything to God, no matter the circumstances.
Being challenged with uncomfortable situations helps us to grow- that's actually what God intended! Most examples of strong characters in the Bible shows us that even the most important people in Biblical history lived very uncomfortable lives, but it pushed them to surrender everything to God. Look at Paul- he wrote most of the New Testament, established many churches, preached the gospel to possibly thousands. All of this was accomplished because he pushed through challenging circumstances.
Looking back at challenges we've faced, we will see how God has led and directed us to the best end. We suffered short term loss for a long term gain. The short term loss of challenges in this life are nothing compared to the eternal glory we will gain!
ROMANS 8:28 teaches us that all difficulties are for our good. At the end of our lives, we will see that the path of difficulties and trials led to a better end than we could have ever orchestrated if we had our way.
Joseph is a great example of this. His brothers hated him, they tried to kill him but sold him in to slavery instead, he was wrongfully imprisoned for 13 years, all while he was trying to serve God with all his heart. But this all happened for a reason! The ultimate end saved his entire family and all of Israel because he stayed faithful and allowed God to help him bloom where he was planted.
Each trial we face is a stepping stone taking you higher in to God's will and ultimate plan. Don't fight against challenges! Allow God to use them to strengthen you. Upsets in our life can be for ultimate good if we are willing to take the short term loss. Trust the process- God will help you bloom and grow even in the most dire circumstances if you allow it.
