Face Challenges by Faith

“Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. “ 1 Peter 4:16 (ESV)

In a story titled “Jelly Roll Finishes His First 5K Race: “I Left Here Feeling Really Motivated’” published Saturday, it was reported that country singer Jelly Roll finished his first 3.1 mile run Tuesday at the 2 Bears 5K in Los Angeles. Since his announcement at the beginning of 2024 to begin training, Jelly Roll says he lost between another 50 and 70 pounds on top of the nearly 200 he had shed in the previous couple of years. Jelly Roll, real name Jason Bradley DeFord, spoke about his feelings as he neared the race’s finish line. “I couldn’t walk a mile when I started trying to do this back in January,” the singer told Entertainment Tonight. “So the fact that we got three-point-whatever it was done today, I feel really, really good about it. I left here feeling really motivated.” He also spoke about the challenges the 3.1-mile race presented him. “I feel great, man. I’m a little tired,” he said. “A little bit harder than I thought it was, but it’s awesome, man.” DeFord said one of the most fulfilling parts of the race day was seeing other people who had been motivated by his fitness journey finish the race. "I think the coolest thing is how many people stopped to tell us that they were motivated by us, other big guys," he said. "It was just really cool to see…” 

And you know, when it comes to overcoming challenges in such a way that people will be persuaded to do something that will better them, you and I would do well to remember that our struggles allow us to motivate others to seek God in a way nothing else can. You see, “as a Christian” I’m not immune from facing hardships, hurdles, and hiccups, and neither are you. But as believers we can face these trials in a way that’s different from the world — with calmness, confidence and hope since we have the blessed assurance that God has both a purpose and a plan behind each of our problems, and we are never at the hand of fate or chance. In this way, God is glorified and people are inspired to seek the One who allows us to be joyful in the midst of pain and adversity. 

So if you’re in the midst of suffering for any reason today, take heart my friend. The Bible is clear that there is coming a time when there will be no more tears, death, mourning, crying, or pain. Until then, may we choose to “glorify God” in all that we do and say so that others will make the same choice. That would be really cool to see!

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we have no reason to view challenges as the world does. Help us to see them as seasons to grow closer to You and to bring You glory that we might smile and rejoice in the midst of our pain and problems, knowing that You are in total control. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!