In the previous episode of our blog series, “What Does It Mean to Confess Your Faith as a Christian?”, we explored the importance of allowing our words, beliefs and actions to agree with our faith. But why do Christians go through challenges? What happens when our faith is confronted by difficult circumstances?
But what happens when our faith is confronted by difficult circumstances?
It is easy to speak about faith when everything is going well. The real test comes when hardship, sickness, setback, disappointment or uncertainty enters our lives. At such moments, what receives our attention – our situation or our Redeemer?
As Christians, we are not promised a life without challenges. Jesus said in John 16:33 that we would have trouble in this world. There will always be an issue that challenges our faith. But these situations are not necessarily meant to destroy us. They can strengthen our desire for God and develop our character.
Today, we will look at why a true Christian is tested, why our challenges can strengthen us, and why our attention must remain on Jesus Christ when our faith is challenged.
Why Do Christians Face Trials and Challenges?
A true Christian, a true believer, is tested.
Citing John 16:33 and Luke 22:32, T.B. Joshua reminds us that there will always be an issue that challenges our faith. We are in the world, but we are not of the world. Something must test our faith. It could be hardship, sickness, setback or disappointment.
But situation is not an enemy to a Christian. Situations are there to improve us, not impair us. As Christians, our struggles can make us stronger. They are meant to strengthen our desire and character.
This is why we should not immediately judge ourselves by our circumstances. A man can be poor and yet be a friend of Jesus. A man can be sick in body and yet be a candidate of Heaven.
We can easily misjudge ourselves when we are facing circumstances such as failure. What we see in the moment does not necessarily tell us what God is doing in our lives.
T.B. Joshua describes the challenges of our journey with Christ as part of “the beauty in our journey to eternal life.” What may appear difficult or foolish can become valuable when it strengthens our faith and character.
Keep Your Focus on Your Redeemer
People can talk so much about their situation instead of talking about their Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Instead of focusing on the One who saves, heals and delivers, they become consumed by their challenges.
Why are you so concerned about your situation instead of your Redeemer, Healer, Saviour?
There will always be an issue that challenges our faith, but our attention should remain on Jesus.
We cannot separate warfare from salvation. True salvation will put us into direct conflict with Satan, and a true Christian is tested by his ability to face circumstances and situations.
This is why we must carry Jesus along in every area of our lives – in our marriage, business and decisions.
T.B. Joshua reminds us: “Jesus does not maintain what He does not form.”
Do Not Let Your Situation Become Your Focus
Whatever situation you are facing, do not allow it to become bigger than your Redeemer. Your challenge may be real, but it does not have to define your relationship with God.
Why do Christians go through challenges? Because challenges can strengthen our faith, develop our character and teach us to keep our focus on Jesus rather than our circumstances.
As we continue this journey of becoming God’s person, may we learn to face life’s challenges with faith, keeping our eyes on Jesus rather than allowing our circumstances to control our hearts.
A true Christian is tested. The question is not whether challenges will come, but who we will look to when they do.
Today, discover why challenges are part of the Christian journey, why your situation is not necessarily your enemy, and why keeping your focus on Jesus can strengthen your faith and character.
To continue exploring this teaching, listen to this message by Prophet T.B. Joshua and discover how to face life’s challenges while keeping your focus on your Redeemer.