challenge

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

Challenge. It is not our favorite part of life. Or is it? I think we like a challenge as long as it is not too great, and as long as we don't have too many, too often. Sometimes we don't like our lives to be disrupted by too many challenges at once, or any challenge at all. We are creatures of comfort and we like to have it good, whenever we can. This is human nature.

However, some of the greatest moments of life revolve around challenge. Finally receiving a diploma. Facing an illness. Resolving a conflict. Achieving a goal. Climbing a mountain. Pursuing a dream. Standing up to impossible odds and overcoming. Entering the wilderness and coming out on the other side.

The world is filled with folks who quit college and regret it. Who shrank back from an opportunity and missed their potential. Who refused to try, to go the second mile, and now sit in the recliner of mediocrity wondering why greatness has passed them by.

We have challenges. Individually, and as a church. They make me nervous. Sometimes I want to stick my head in the sand. However, let us remember the words of James and count it all joy, because God is working his work within us. God has entrusted us with some great opportunities. It is an honor to pursue great dreams for Him.

At least our life together isn't boring. Thank God for exciting times.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.