PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
May
24

Conquer Challenges

Tim Savage

Scripture
3We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5
Observation
This passage is a great reminder to persevere through tough times, dry times and challenging times. We are constantly faced with set backs, obstacles and difficulties but the word gives us hope that it’s through these times we are built. Many years ago when I paddled canoe for New Hope’s competition team we would be out on the water killing ourselves doing sprints and distance practices – I was hurting at the end, but each of those tough practices strengthened me, little by little, increasing my endurance, strength, technique, knowledge and skill. After a couple of months I was a much more competitive athlete, but it took surviving those brutal practice sessions. Those practices prepared us for the races, when all of that hard work counted. So it is in life, often we must survive the problems that come our way because it prepares for the times when we will really need it. As Paul wrote, trials create endurance, endurance produces character and character gives us a stronger confidence in salvation.
Application
I must not grow weary from challenges and obstacles because theyforge me in to a stronger and more disciplined servant of the Most High. Just like when I train for a race or to get in to better shape I have to endure some pain or discomfort in order to improve and achieve goals. I have to change my attitude towards difficulties. I need to look at it like a hill on a run, something to conquer, a challenge to defeat and in the process forge a tougher and stronger character that will drawer me closer to my Heavenly Father.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, Help me to run harder and live stronger for You. Help me to see difficult times as opportunities to spiritually train to become the ministry warrior You would like me to be. May my life be an example to others to grow closer to You. In Jesus name, Amen

Devotions for May 24

1 Kings 9
2 Chronicles 8
Psalms 136
Romans 5

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