Facing Challenges with Faithful Courage
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.”
Money is helpful, but it doesn’t provide a stress-free life. Stress-free only happens when we die. We can, however, find a life with less stress and more fulfillment. The key is facing the challenges of daily life with integrity and trust. Living a blessed life doesn’t just happen but requires a nurturing of the heart.
In her article “The Most Zen People Have These 4 Things in Common,” Margaret Pan provides recommendations that are beneficial for people of all faiths. Pan affirms, “1. They Don’t Let Themselves Drown in the Details.” God isn’t just a fixture in our hopes for the afterlife. Through the Holy Spirit, God continues to guide us through the predicaments of life. Most of what we think is significant is just another little challenge to be faithfully addressed. Finding the courage, confidence, and faithful plan to address each of these challenges reduces stress and brings a feeling of blessing back to our lives.
Pan’s next piece of wisdom: “2. They Search for a Valuable Lesson in Every Difficulty They Encounter.” Attitude is a huge determiner of how we face life’s difficulties. We can panic, or we can seek learning. Struggles and setbacks are inevitable. They do not have to scar us for life. Pain can lead us to a better life when healthy learning and growth take place.
Pan continues, “3. They Strive for Continuous Improvement Instead of Perfection.” Perfectionism is a form of separation from God. Only God is perfect, and our attempts are a form of idolatry. Accept yourself and life’s imperfections, and it will open yourself to God’s wisdom and learning. Finally, Pan requires, “They Have Learned the Art of Acceptance.” Pray today for the strength to spiritually strive to accept life’s challenges without drowning in detail, but with wisdom’s lessons, avoiding the lie of perfectionism, and embracing what cannot be changed. Let the Spirit of God guide you forward in faith and trust.
