An Example to Others

As we look at a body of believers, whether it is at church, at a Christian gathering or at home with the family, it is important to remember that each of us are at different levels of Godly understanding and spiritual faith. It is not an understanding that is to be lauded over others, but it is an insight that is meant to be coupled with grace and humility. It is humbling to remember that there was a time when our faith and our understanding of the ways of God were not where they are now.

Seasoned Christians understand that the maturity of a believer evolves only through trials and testing. It is during those difficult times that our learning and knowledge about God has an opportunity to move from theory to practical experience. We need to realize that our life is meant to be a journey of facing and overcoming struggles through our steadfast faith in God. 

Jesus tells us in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus faced many struggles and challenges, yet He overcame all of them through His unwavering faith in His Heavenly Father. Jesus overcame life’s challenges and He is letting us know that we too can overcome every struggle. We do so by seeking God each day and boldly walking out the path that is before us. It is a walk that involves unwavering faith, frequent prayer and heartfelt rejoicing in a faithful God.

As Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, we are to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Especially when we feel alone and are wondering where God is in our life.

Let us pray for the strength to face any challenge that life has in store for us. 

Pray that we will continue to rejoice in our God, that we will pray daily in faith, that we will praise God and give Him thanks as we face another day.

The writer tells us in Hebrews 12:1-3, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

The truth is that we are all part of those witnesses. Each struggle we overcome and every time we refuse to compromise on our faith, we become an example that others who are growing in Christ can cling to as proof of the faithfulness of God. Our growth and maturity in Christ gives hope to those whose faith is being tested.