Episode 272: When Your Faith is Under Pressure

If only we knew that the challenge we face can make us a better person. If only we knew that our trials - the trials we face are allowed to make us more like Jesus. God can use the challenge you face to help you become like Christ. One of my dearest ones mentioned to me that he felt like physically fighting someone who was upsetting him. Interestingly, I was having a similar feelings such as hitting out at someone because I felt being intentionally ignored, severally. I had to open up to him concerning my feelings as well and encouraged him with this Scripture. James, one of the servants of God and the Lord Jesus Christ wrote the encouraging letter to the 12 tribes of God's people who live in many different parts of the world to strengthen and uplift their souls. My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance. And then as your endurance grows even stronger, it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking. James ‭1:2-5‬ ‭TPT‬‬ I love the way the MSG describes it. “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.” ‭‭James‬ ‭1:2-4‬ ‭MSG‬‬ Of course, I was encouraged by this same Scripture as well. Lord I thank You for Your Word that encourages and uplifts us when we feel down. I praythat You will help us to always remember to look to You and Your Word so that we can always bask in the glory of Your presence even in the face of challenges and trials. In Jesus’ name, amen.