Growing Stronger...

Have you ever been in a situation where you saw no way out and things were difficult if not impossible in your own strength? Well I would dare say if we were honest that most would say yes, at least at some point in our lives. What is interesting to me is that while overseas I experienced that more than ever in my life and constantly found myself developing a total trust in God for everything, mainly because I had no options. Now that I am back in the states it is only when stretching myself intentionally, that I encounter those moments or opportunities of what I now see as faith building.

In talking with my daughter and my students at school, they are often asked to take risks and learn something new, and not give up when it is difficult, even though it would be much easier to quit or make excuses. My observation and encouragement is for those who are able to stand in the "fire" so to speak, is that something happens. Their fears begin to disappear as they see glimmers of success and are encouraged to keep trying. They learn that maybe that can do it after all, and with perseverance and determination, eventually they do see success, and with that they grow stronger in their resiliency and confidence.

Is is not the same as Christians? God asks that we trust him, yet when we are faced with difficulties we begin to fear, make excuses and look for a way out, but if we can stand the test of "fire", we will see God show up, and as a result grow stronger in our walk with Christ, because of our difficulty where he was our only hope and he showed himself true, once again.

When we depend on Christ daily, and look to him, we are working our spiritual muscles and over time they will become stronger, but if we don't they will become soft and flabby. The bible puts it like this. If salt has lost it's flavor, of what use is it. If we put our light under a table, who benefits? Luke 14:34 and Luke 11:33.

I pray that when you are in the "fire", you will be encouraged to stay the course and have your faith strengthened as Christ shows up and proves himself to be faithful, and stand in the gap for your loved ones and those around you when they are weak, encouraging them to trust and believe on God's promises, even when it seems impossible.....

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHATCAvlqQA