Confronting Challenges

“These are the nations that the LORD left in the land to test those Israelites who had not experienced the wars of Canaan. He did this to teach warfare to generations of Israelites who had no experience in battle.” Judges 3:1-2 NLT

How normal it can seem to associate success with victory and achievement. To reward those who excel, while withholding praise for those who fall short. Yet some schools have realized that students must face situations where success is difficult, and even impossible. That, in fact, “the most valuable problems may be the unsolvable ones.”

One university discovered that many students never really have “failed at anything.” So they don’t know how to cope with problems. So the school forces them to face situations with no clear solutions and “challenges they often can’t meet.”

Some students are given complex problems but only minimal resources, and tight deadlines. In one course, students are graded not on their ability to solve problems but how well they communicate and approach the challenges.

The goal is to prepare students for the real world. To help them develop determination and resilience in the face of failure and frustration. And learn the value of humility.
God applied similar principles when the Israelites entered the Promised Land. He intentionally let them face opposition. He knew that each generation needed to face challenges, to learn how to make decisions, and to realize why they needed to depend on Him.

We confront these principles in many ways. We are wise if we learn from others and history. But God still often allows us to face challenges ourselves that we might gain experience. Deal with temptation and trials, rejection and failure. Realize the fullness of His truth, and personally grow in our knowledge of Him.

Don’t be discouraged if you face problems. God has not abandoned you. Keep praying. Keep applying His principles. Keep trusting Him. And learn what He is teaching you.

Prayer: Father, I commit these situations to You: _________. Thank You for Your wisdom. Thank You for direction. I believe You for the answers and help I need. In Jesus’ name. Amen.