As Christians, we all face challenges that test our faith and resilience. The difference between stagnation and spiritual growth often hinges on how well we navigate discomfort and disappointment. This requires deliberate action and God’s grace.
What better time than now, at the dawn of 2025, to zero in on ONE CHALLENGE? Not several. Just one. Why? Because focusing allows you to lean into God’s power with clarity and purpose. YOU CAN DO IT.
Here are SEVEN COMMON CHALLENGES many of us face. As you read, ask yourself: Which one speaks to my heart? Which challenge will I trust God to help me overcome?
CHALLENGE #1: PAIN
“I am in pain.”
IMPACT: Suffering
GOD’S PROMISE: “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:10
CHALLENGE #2: HOPELESSNESS
“I feel hopeless.”
IMPACT: Emptiness
GOD’S PROMISE: “Let him not trust in emptiness, deceiving himself; for emptiness will be his reward.” – Job 15:31
CHALLENGE #3: ANGER
“I am angry.”
IMPACT: Frustration
GOD’S PROMISE: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” – James 1:19-20
CHALLENGE #4: INADEQUACY
“I feel worthless.”
IMPACT: Loneliness
GOD’S PROMISE: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
CHALLENGE #5: FEAR
“I am afraid.”
IMPACT: Uncertainty
GOD’S PROMISE: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
CHALLENGE #6: CONTROL
“I try to control everything.”
IMPACT: Selfishness
GOD’S PROMISE: “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but in humility regard others as more important than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
CHALLENGE #7: SPIRITUAL STAGNATION
“I feel stuck spiritually.”
IMPACT: Complacency
GOD’S PROMISE: “We are not meant to remain as children, but to grow up in every way into Christ.” – Ephesians 4:14-15
Take a moment to pray about these challenges. Which one will you take on in 2025 with God’s guidance?
