“Our Challenges Produces Change”

James 1:2-4

Challenges is defined as dispute; question; test; confrontation; objection; trial.

Challenges produces change. Challenges are more difficult when they’re imposed on us suddenly or without our approval. Abraham had to experience challenges, the pain associated with change in order to receive the blessings that positive change brought into his life. Abraham had leave his country and go live in a foreign land that he didn't know. The challenges, the pain involved in this change. The fear of living in a different culture, language, traditions. The pain of leaving his relatives, his home, his friends behind for good. The risk of leaving the security of his home for the unknown place God was sending him to. The blessings associated with this change. His name and family would be great. God would give him many descendants. The world would be blessed through him. Mary faced the pain of loneliness (solitude) in her future life because of her special experience. But Mary also saw the blessings attached to this change. She would have favor with God, a special favor not given to another. She would be the mother of a king, the Messiah, the Son of God. Mary changed her mind about what God could and couldn't do and God blessed her in a way no woman has or will be blessed again. Jesus personally asked James and John, and Peter and Matthew, who all changed their lives, their beliefs, their jobs in order to follow Jesus as His Apostles. There are moments in life when a change is necessary or due. 

I come by tonight to encourage and remind you that our challenges produces change. We must rejoice in our suffering, our challenges, knowing God is using it to produce in us what we could not produce in ourselves. Be blessed and I love you!!! JE