2 Corinthians 1:8-11

8 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11 as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. - 2 Corinthians 1:8-11

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God allows hardships in our lives to help us to grow in character and in faith.  At first, this might sound cruel, but it’s actually loving.  

My niece Taylor just turned 1 and her parents are trying to challenge her with her fine motor skills.  In the past, they would just bring the things she wants to her.  But now, they allow Taylor to struggle to walk to or grab what she needs.  They are being good parents because if they keep just giving Taylor what she wants without Taylor working for it, Taylor’s fine motor skills won’t develop as quickly or as well.

A baby needs to be challenged physically so the baby can mature.  This Saturday we watched Spirited Away, a classic Studio Ghibli anime and in the movie there is a character simply called “Baby.”  Baby is literally a giant baby who has been spoiled and shielded from all discomfort.  In fact, Baby has never even left his room until the protagonist Chihiro brought him out.  The Baby was emotionally and physically stunted because he was never challenged.

In the same way, we need to be challenged spiritually or else we will never grow.  The hardships God allows in our lives grant us opportunities to trust and rely on Him.  Check out verse 9 in this Bible passage when the Apostle Paul writes that “this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God.”

Think about a challenge or a difficulty you’re experiencing right now.  Now allow this Scripture passage to transform your view of the situation.  It’s not just an annoying or inconvenient challenge, it’s another opportunity for you to grow in your faith.