Endure

September 24-25

Endure

We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance. Romans 5:3

As we age, the strength and size of our muscles declines. The medical term for this is ‘sarcopenia’. So it is true, the saying goes “use it or lose it”. This is also true of faith. Faith is like a muscle, and the principle is basically the same here. God has called us to endure the challenges of life and in doing so we are strengthening our faith.

Muscle soreness after a workout will have me whining because of my ridiculously low pain threshold. But that is exactly it. Any athlete will tell you that in order to become faster, better, and stronger, you need to embrace the pain. The soreness indicates that your muscles are rebuilding themselves, which is good!

You may feel confused, but God doesn’t. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is: his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

This is also true for the trials and circumstances of life. Life comes with plenty of challenges along the way. However, if we endure and not confirm then we are strengthened. The soreness that these challenges cause in your life have the potential to strengthen your faith muscle.

Whatever you are going through right now, whatever storms are raging in your life, I want to encourage you that your faith can grow in this season. Endure the process. Hold on to God, allow Him to build up your faith through the tribulation, and be patient in the process. Be patient and trust God.