How should challenges shape my life?

Romans 15:20-22My ambition has always been to preach the Good News where the name of Christ has never been heard. . . . I have been following the plan spoken of in the Scriptures, where it says, “Those who have never been told about him will see, and those who have never heard of him will understand.” In fact, my visit to you has been delayed so long because I have been preaching in these places.

Paul’s vision to preach the gospel in new places grew from challenging passages he read in the Scriptures, and this continually drove him greater growth in his relationship with God. God has called you to do something for him. Find out what it is and accept the challenge of stepping out to do it.

2 Corinthians 11:26I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.

Facing dangers of various sorts is part of the challenge of serving God in all things. You may not face physical danger, but you may face danger to your reputation, your job, even some of your relationships. These challenges allow you to reveal God’s mercy and power to others, teach you to develop endurance, and better exercise the gifts God has given you.