Life is full of challenges and trials. We all face difficult situations at some point in our lives, and it can be tempting to give up or try to avoid them altogether. But as Christians, we are called to persevere through these trials and difficulties.
In John 16:33, Jesus tells us that “in this world, we will have trouble.” But he also reminds us to take heart (have courage) because he has overcome the world. James 1:2-4 encourages us to consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds because the testing of our faith produces perseverance. And when perseverance finishes its work, we can become mature and complete, not lacking anything.
As parents, it’s natural to want to protect or rescue our children from pain and difficulty. But allowing them to face obstacles and persevere through them is more beneficial in the long run. This gives them the opportunity to grow and develop, to learn how to overcome challenges, and to mature into responsible adults.
Likewise, when we face trials in our own lives, we can trust that God is using those difficulties to shape us into the person he created us to be. He sees the end from the beginning and knows what we need to grow and develop. By persevering through the hard things, we can become more mature and complete, not lacking anything.
So, the next time you face a difficult situation, don’t be discouraged. Remember that perseverance is the key to maturity and completeness. Embrace the hard stuff, knowing that all things – both good and bad – work together for good to those who love God.
Questions to Consider
- Have I been avoiding challenges and trials in my life, or have I been embracing them as opportunities to grow and develop?
- How can I trust God more in difficult situations, knowing that He sees the bigger picture and is using these challenges to shape me into the person He created me to be?
- As a parent, am I allowing my children to face obstacles and persevere through them, or am I trying to protect them from all pain and difficulty?
- Have I been able to choose joy in the midst of trials, knowing that they can produce perseverance and ultimately lead to maturity and completeness?