Challenges are Fantastic Ways to Grow Faith

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:2-3 NIV

In a story titled "Thousands participate in Bass Pro Shops marathon weekend" published by KY 3 News yesterday, it was reported that more than 3,000 people from across 40 states - and one from Switzerland - made their way to the Ozarks for Bass Pro’s marathon weekend. Sunday’s Conservation Marathon was a qualifier for the famous Boston Marathon in April, while other runners competed in a marathon relay or half marathon. The route took runners across many neighborhoods, several paved trails, part of historic Route 66, around Missouri State University, and downtown Springfield. “Today has really been a fantastic challenge with the rain and the weather, but all these people still managed to come out and show their perseverance to get the job done,” said Melissa Bondy, the director of Bass Pro Shop’s Fitness Series.

And, you know, while most people would never use the word ‘fantastic’ to describe a challenge (especially one as daunting as making sure 3,000 runners were kept safe), that’s actually a great word for believers to use. You see, the Bible tells us that followers of Jesus Christ can and should be joyful whenever they “face trials of many kinds” because these challenges test their faith in the same way a marathon tests or reveals their training (or lack thereof). A true believer will rise to the challenge and trust God’s faithfulness to work any and all situations for good and will be able to keep running the race. On the other hand, a person with little or no faith will likely throw their hands up in defeat and walk away. Furthermore, each time a person is witness to the faithfulness of God, their perseverance grows because their trust in Him grows stronger, allowing them to overcome bigger and bigger battles over time in the same way a runner progresses from the 5k to the 10k and then to the half marathon and then to the full marathon. Challenges give us opportunities to grow!

So consider it pure joy when (not if) you “face trials of many kinds” my friend. These fantastic challenges will not only serve to grow your faith but also have the potential to cause others to seek Christ by the faith you exhibit when you keep running the race with your eyes on Jesus, despite the troubles you will encounter along the way. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the challenges in life that give us opportunities to experience your goodness, mercy, grace, and faithfulness. Knowing that the lost are more inspired to seek You by the way we face our trials than when we have no troubles at all, help us to be joyful, faithful, and hopeful as we trust in and follow You until the very end. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.  

Happy Running!