WHEN CHALLENGES BECOME YOUR FOOD

8/10/2025

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” (Isaiah 43:2-3)

As a believer, frustration and discouragement should never be your permanent state. Challenges are not designed to crush you—they are opportunities to showcase the greatness of your God. They are part of your picture of victory. In fact, they are food for your spirit, strengthening your faith and determination to keep moving forward. Scripture reminds us: “In all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37).

Notice that Isaiah 43:2 says “when” you pass through the waters or walk through the fire—not “if.” This means challenges in life are inevitable. They are part of God’s refining process and are often the backdrop for your most powerful testimonies. These moments give you a “…but God” story:

• The doctor said it was impossible… but God!

• I was denied the job… but God!

• They counted me out… but God!

These are not problems caused by disobedience or wrong choices. These are trials you face while living in alignment with God’s Word—moments meant to reveal His power in your life.

God never promised a trouble-free life. Instead, He promised His presence, which is more than enough (Deuteronomy 31:6). He assures us that though we may go through fire, we will not be burned. His presence doesn’t repel challenges—it often attracts them, because the enemy recognizes the threat you are to his plans. If you are never challenged, it may be time to check whether you’re truly pressing forward in your spiritual walk (2 Timothy 3:12).

Even Jesus was in the boat with His disciples when the storm arose. David’s victory over Goliath, the deliverance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the fiery furnace, and Daniel’s rescue from the lions’ den all came because they faced challenges head-on with faith. Without those trials, we would not know their testimonies—or their God.

So when challenges come, rejoice! Praise God even before you see the outcome. The battle you face today will strengthen you for tomorrow. As Scripture says: “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). And “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Like David, you can declare: “In Your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall” (Psalm 18:29).

Challenges are food for your spirit—so eat and grow!

Faith-Filled Confession:

I am conscious of God’s unfailing presence with me. He has promised never to leave me nor forsake me. Challenges are food for my spirit, and I face them without fear or discouragement. I am more than a conqueror. I overcome every obstacle by faith. No matter what comes my way, by my God I can crush any army and scale any wall. Hallelujah!

Prayer Point

2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 (AMPC) -  Philippians 1:27

1. Pray that all that is required for excellent delivery and execution of God’s vision this month is made available by the power of the Holy Ghost.  Therefore, we lack nothing. In Jesus name

2. Pray for our pastor and all who are involved in the planning and execution of God’s vision for the ministry this month. Pray that they will be synchronize with the rhythm of  Holy Spirit and with one another at all times. 

Numbers 12:3-8   Joshua  3:7

4. Pray for ministers—who are facing opposition from within the very congregations they serve;, opposition that are designed to divide the church and displace these ministers. Pray that God will vindicate and magnified His presence in them causing them to walk in victory.