How to Face A Challenge

I was given a beautiful Swan Orchid for my birthday and received it with gladness. After a few weeks passed, I began to be concerned about how to care for it and keep it alive. This had proven to be a challenge for me with previous orchids. Knowing that doubt was trying to make its entrance, I immediately replaced it with a faith of knowing I could learn how to keep this one alive. For the Spirit tenderly encouraged me not to be frightened of something that was a challenge.

After some research on how to care for it, I chose the best place for it in our home. With a mind at ease and peace, it allowed me to observe the intricate beauty of this plant. It is gorgeous! The details of the petals, its assorted colors, and softness wherewith God had designed it was beyond description.

Bearded Irises have always been one of my favorites. I did not notice before that the Swan Orchid has several similar characteristics of the Bearded Iris. Had I not changed my perspective about this challenge, I would have missed the beauty that was staring me right in the face. Within each challenge, there is some beauty that God wants you to see. You must intentionally shut off doubts and turn on your faith radar. Then you will be able to experience His presence over the problem, giving you the courage needed to face the challenge.

Facing challenges is a part of life. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Every challenge is an opportunity to experience God in a deeper way. Within every challenge there is some hidden beauty that can be uncovered. Psalm 46:1 states, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” This is something to remember when facing a challenge. Yet, there are additional things to be mindful of when challenges come. They are (in no special order):

•   Remember you are not alone and that God is not limited in the help He can provide
•   Do not panic, call upon God (pray), and submit to His protection and guidance
•   Acknowledge any fear or doubt, and take a small step forward in faith
•   Embrace this challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning
•   Believe in your ability to develop new skills and find solutions as God leads you
•   Refuse to give into worry, fear, anxiety and fretting for it is a waste of energy
•   See any setbacks as learning experiences rather than failures
•   Connect with friends, family, or mentors for needed encouragement and counsel
•   Be kind to yourself when all you see are your weaknesses; know that God will be your strength
•   Express gratitude to God for any good or progress made
•   Acknowledge and manage your emotions; keep your mouth from sinning
•   Be open to change and adjustments when the situation requires it
•   Consider the pros and cons, and make the best-informed decision presently
•   Have patience with yourself and others involved; persevere and do not give up
•   Let go of your pride; receive help from others and God as He prompts you

Remember, you are not alone facing challenges. Maintain a faith-filled perspective in this challenge knowing that God is in it with you. Yield to His timing and do not force your own. Release control understanding that it is a challenge for you because you do not see the whole picture. But remember that God does—He sees it all. In closing, here are some Scriptures to keep in mind:

Romans 8:24-25

“Now in this hope we were saved, yet hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Psalm 37:4-5

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.

Amen and Amen!