GROWING THROUGH LIFE CHALLENGES

When we face life challenges , we must find a way not only to survive them, but in time, to actually grow from them. We must find a way to keep on keeping on, no matter how hard or painful life becomes. As a result we can avoid getting "stuck" and live life in spite of our circumstances.
It may be a difficult time in your life right now, and it may take a significant amount of time to make progress, but if you start right where you are, and just concentrate on taking the very next step, you will eventually be able to grow through your life challenges as well.

Let me take you through these five stages to help you grow through life challenges.

1. Grieve the way you want- know what to expect . Don't ignore your grief. Don't let anyone take your grief away from you. Run to God and be determined to keep on keeping on

2. Ask God "why?"- When the pain is deep, "Why?" is the most natural question to ask. Jesus asked God why on the cross when the pain was too much to bear. God does not owe you an answer, even if He gave you an answer, you would more than likely disagree. As we search for the answer, our goal is to develop a relationship with The Answer.

3. Keep living- Never use your life challenge as a crutch, get out of bed every day. Keep up your responsibilities and relationships. Be grateful for those who are still alive in your life. Treasure the breath of life you have at this moment. Never for a second stop living because you think life hasn't treated you fairly.

4.Reach out to others- Remember the love, encouragement, and the comfort you have received. Don't be selfish, pass it on to others. It is extra meaningful to receive encouragement from others who are also hurting.  

5. Sing it loud and proud- Never waste your life challenge education. Take inventory of the treasures God has given you. Live a life of significance and impact from this day forward. Rediscover your melody. Sing through your storms like never before. Praise your way out of your troubles for you to be raised.

May we enter into the next month refreshed and strong to face all the challenges of life that awaits us and become victors and not victims of life.