Challenge

<<test, confront>>

Everyone encounters challenges – whether they stem from difficult circumstances, relationships, or unexpected events – that can sometimes feel overwhelming. For those who share the Christian faith, these moments are not faced alone. Instead, such challenges are seen as opportunities to draw closer to God and rely on His provision, trusting that even hardships are ultimately working for our good (Rom 8:28,29). In practical terms, being "conformed to the likeness of Jesus" means allowing these situations to shape our character – developing qualities such as patience, forgiveness, and compassion, just as Jesus demonstrated. For example, when facing a stressful job situation or a broken relationship, a Christian might respond by seeking God's guidance in prayer, choosing to act with kindness rather than bitterness, and trusting that God is using the difficulty to grow their faith. Progress in our spiritual journey often comes as we walk with God through trials and suffering, trusting that He will give us the strength to overcome (Josh 1:5). No matter how tough things get, do not give up or turn away from faith; perseverance leads to growth and deeper trust in God.

Challenges can help determine priorities, prompt action, and lead to meaningful change.

The correct reaction is to confront them and find a solution; be an overcomer rather than running from the tests that are pressing so hard against your spirit. The present situation is the best method to shape me for eternity if I am yielded to Christ.

We won’t be exempt from challenges in this life. The true test is how well we stand up under the pressures and trials of life. Don’t think that because God loves us, He will remove us from troubles. These can’t dislodge God’s love

Don’t fight them – use them for your good

and Spirit from us (Rom 8:37-39). God provides numerous opportunities or challenges by which His refining process – working His character into us and the outward displaying of that to others – is achieved, for "all things work together for our good" (Rom 8:28; Gal 5:22,23). Rise in His strength and power to meet and be victorious in the challenges.

Some days it seems that everything that can go wrong will go wrong! What is a real challenge to one person is not a problem at all to another person. A right mental attitude, relationship with Christ, and obedience to Him are essential. Live one day at a time, sufficient unto it are the challenges it will bring; tomorrow will present its share, so don’t try to overcome tomorrow’s hurdles today (Mt 6:34). Yes, plan and learn from the past as well as making provision for the future, but live in the present.

Life is full of challenges! Don’t resent but welcome them, they are our opportunity to an increase of the grace of God as the self-life and its evil reactions are replaced with divine qualities that include patience and perseverance (Rom 5:3-5; Jas 1:2-4). There is always something to frustrate and test our spirituality and devotion to Christ, yet we should always keep our focus on Jesus (Heb 12:2).

Two aspects to keep in mind

1/. Is my reaction to the challenge God honouring – will it make me better or bitter?

2/. Do I treat those who caused this challenge the same as I would like to be treated?

Don’t compare your trials with those of others or wish you were in their situation – God has a uniquely personal blueprint and pathway designed to work His purposes out in each believer (Jn 21:21,22).

It’s not a time to question where God is in all this, but confess, ‘Lord, you have my best interest at heart, help me to co-operate with you.’ Challenges are not designed to destroy me but make me stronger. Be positive and look for the good in each situation.

We will be presented with greater challenges than we can handle in our own ability (Jdg 6:14-16). Keep your focus on and confidence in the Lord, who is for us, not the size of the giant obstacle that would block you from victory. “I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty” should be our battle cry too (1 Sam 17:4-9,41-50). Joshua challenged the people, “Choose for yourselves this day who you will serve…But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Josh 24:15). To follow God as He requires, all other gods must go.

God’s challenge to us is, ‘you do what I have asked, and I’ll bless you abundantly’ (Mal 3:10-12). Jesus called, “Come, follow me and I will make you fishers of men” (Mt 4:19). In each situation, we are required to take the first step, then as we respond in faith, we discover the Lord is there with us.

The challenge is for each of us to live up to our rightful position as a child of God, walking in victory as an overcomer to reach our potential in Christ, and not be pushed around by Satan, who would try to keep us in bondage to sin and self.

Don’t be dictated to by negative habits that have held you captive in the past. Face them and step by step defeat them, gaining the victory with Christ. We need divine wisdom and to be closely walking with God to know when to press through and overcome by being victorious in Jesus, or to recognize an issue that we need to accept and be at peace with.

Welcome challenges, they are our means to advance and grow

Paul was earnestly praying about a matter until God told him, “My grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Cor 12:7-10). He accepted the ‘No’ and used it for his benefit – what an attitude! Do I "Bless the Lord at all times" being joyful and giving thanks in all circumstances, knowing He is always with us and allows 'storms' for our good as we reach out to Him (Ps 34:1, 119:71; 1 Thes 5:16,18; Heb 13:5).

When reflecting on the journey of faith, it is helpful to consider how different individuals might respond to the offer of salvation. For those who have not yet encountered Christian teachings, exploring the message of the gospel can be a meaningful and inviting step. For Christians, it is valuable to examine whether their daily lives truly reflect their beliefs and commitments. On a personal level, regularly assessing one’s own spiritual growth and development can provide insight and encouragement. Recognising that challenges are a natural part of this spiritual journey, facing these obstacles thoughtfully is essential to growing stronger and moving forward in faith.

The level of commitment and lifestyle of those who are more dedicated can be both a challenge and a catalyst to our often mediocre lives. Our faith is regularly tested and stretched, prompting us to examine whether it is genuine, especially when everyday events push us beyond our comfort zones. This pattern of being stretched beyond comfort is vividly illustrated in the story of Gideon, whose journey demonstrates how faith grows through adversity. Gideon openly admitted that he was the least capable and qualified among his people, yet God chose him to lead the Israelites to deliverance from their menacing enemies (Jdg 6:14,15).

As the narrative unfolds, we see the army Gideon assembled reduced by divine instruction from thousands down to a mere 300 men, an unlikely force for victory. Yet, it was precisely through this strategy that God ensured the glory for success would not be attributed to human ability, but to His own power (Jdg 7:2,3,7). From a natural perspective, Gideon’s men were no match against the vast enemy army, highlighting how, in moments of weakness or inadequacy, faith can truly flourish (Jdg 7:12).

In what areas of your life do you feel least capable, and how might relying on God's strength change your perspective? Are there situations where stepping out in faith seems daunting, yet could lead to greater spiritual growth?

God desires that we advance, not plateau, in our walk with Him. The Christian life is not about striving to accomplish things on our own, but about total reliance on His infinite power and ability as we walk in humble obedience. Just as Gideon’s story reinforces, and as seen in the lives of other biblical figures who faced overwhelming odds with faith, our journey will be marked by challenges that are overcome not by our strength, but through trust in God’s provision and guidance.