In a world where convenience often takes precedence over commitment, it’s not uncommon for individuals to adopt attitudes that prioritize ease over facing life’s inevitable difficulties. Jesus Christ taught in John 16:33(NLT), “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Many of us forget this, especially when it comes to our significant relationships. There are no shortcuts in life, and it’s useless to try to avoid challenges altogether. These behaviors not only demonstrate a hesitance to accept the sacrifices required for spiritual growth, but they also strip us of the transformative power and victory found in facing challenges with courage, perseverance, and unwavering faith in God.
Hebrews 4:15(NLT) states: “This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” When he walked upon this earth, Jesus Christ was fully God and fully man. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us of his humanity. He has a deep understanding of our struggles, and he can relate to our weaknesses because this verse teaches, “he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” Fully embracing his humanity gives us the tools to handle life’s challenges with grace and integrity. Jesus didn’t allow difficulties to define or lead him into sin. He faced things head-on, setting a perfect example of love and faith for us to follow.
The “path of least resistance” mindset is a commonly adopted approach when people encounter challenges. Instead of confronting discomfort head-on, they choose the easier route of giving up, hoping to avoid hardship altogether. This mindset creeps into relationships too, where partners might display unappealing and even appalling attitudes. It can make you feel like running away and never looking back. But maybe, instead of running, it’s worth considering these moments as possibilities for spiritual growth and greater faith.
Hebrews 12:1-3(NLT) states: “1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.”
Life is filled with challenges, and it’s important to think about how we deal with them. In today’s fast-paced society, quick fixes and immediate rewards are expected, and this promotes a mindset of “instant gratification”. Hebrews 12:1-3 reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, our Redeemer that has both initiated and perfected our faith. Keeping our eyes on him is an assurance that we won’t give up, because it continually reminds us why we’re here on earth, which is to grow in Christ and fulfill God’s purpose. Wanting everything now without putting in the work isn’t the way of Christ. We run the risk of losing out on meaningful relationships and spiritual growth when we prioritize instant pleasure over the wisdom and faith that comes with endurance.
2Timothy 1:7(NLT) states, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” Fear is the opposite of faith, and many of us are allowing our fear of failure to steer our lives and hinder us from growing spiritually in Christ. None of us enjoy making mistakes or falling short of expectations, but failure is an inevitable part of life. Romans 8:37(NLT) declares, “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” This truth isn’t for some believers, it’s for us all. 1John 5:4 tells us that we achieve this overwhelming victory through our faith in God! So, no matter how it looks, turning fear to faith means that we learn to see our mistakes as an opportunity for spiritual growth.
No matter how we might try to slice it, none of us are exempt from sacrifice. Quick fixes, giving up, or running away are not the answer to life’s problems. The good news is that there is indeed a better way, and it’s exhibiting the patience, love, and faith of Jesus Christ. His life showed us that facing life’s challenges often means patiently enduring discomfort. Instead of seeking exemption from difficulties, embracing the lessons of perseverance, endurance, and patience will keep us on the path of blessings and ensure the spiritual growth that God has ordained for our lives. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Exempt from Sacrifice”, written by Fran Mack. Edits by Kim Times and K. Stephens for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.