Enduring Growth

     Since I have written my last post, there has been a lot of enduring challenges/trials in my life.  Many people would consider having a miscarriage a major challenge.  I would more than agree with them.  However, it feels as though God has truly been pouring His strength in my life due to the troubles I have endured in addition to the miscarriage. 

      Throughout the last year, I have learned to place boundaries in  relationships; whether it is a friendship, marriage, or even a family member.  Relationships are not easy to maintain and require work from both ends.  However, I know that in order for my relationship with Christ to grow and prosper, I need to be devoted to Him.  When boundaries are crossed in relationships, Satan has a chance to begin to work. 

      James, Jesus' brother, tends to focus more on ethics in his writings.  Wondering how ethics and relationships go hand in hand?  Here's the answer: ethics can best be defined as a set of moral principles.  Relationships are in essence a system that requires moral principles to be healthy.  Once the morals/values in the relationship are faltered, the foundation of the relationship is compromised. 

       Looking particularly at James 1:2-4, "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.  For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.  So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing."

        When I first read this scripture, I was humbled.  When someone that you have a relationship with (significant other, sister/brother, mother/father, best friend, etc) challenges/tries your relationship, this is an opportunity to grow.   This can be applied in many different circumstances as well: marriage, miscarriages, loss/grief, work/school, etc.   

        Please do not miss this next point though.  When you have a chance to grow, you have a chance to show as well.  What I mean is this, when you grow in Christ, you can show Christ to others in the growth. We can learn to build each other up, or tear each other down when we are enduring a trail.  Remember though, that God calls us to help each other, love each other, and forgive each other. 

Dear Heavenly Father, I seek Your will for my life.  I ask Lord, that through this trial, this challenge, this heartache, I can be an example to others.  I pray Lord that my actions and words are a reflection of You. In Your Precious Son's Name, Amen.