WALK WITH GOD: The Challenges

✨ Devotional Thoughts

Walking with God is one of the most fulfilling journeys a person can ever embark upon—but it is not without cost. It’s not a smooth, problem-free road. Jesus Himself told His disciples plainly: if you are going to follow Me, be prepared to deny yourself, carry your cross, and face trials for My name’s sake.

Many Christians start their walk with God full of excitement and hope—and rightly so! The love, peace, and promises of God are real and life-changing. But as they continue walking, they encounter trials they didn’t expect: rejection, criticism, loneliness, and even persecution. Suddenly, the path feels steeper, and the weight feels heavier.

Yet Jesus never sugar-coated the path of discipleship. He was honest: “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). The cross we carry isn't just a symbol of suffering—it's a sign that we are no longer walking alone, but with Christ, in a mission far greater than ourselves.

The apostles, after Jesus ascended to heaven, went into all the world preaching the gospel. They were empowered by the Holy Spirit, but that didn’t exempt them from hardships.

Paul was shipwrecked, beaten, imprisoned, and often hungry. Peter was rejected and ultimately crucified upside down. John was exiled to Patmos. Their walk with God was deeply rewarding—but also costly.

Yet not one of them regretted their decision. Paul boldly declared:

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18)

They understood something we must grasp too: the challenges of walking with God pale in comparison to the eternal joy and reward awaiting us.

🪴Practical Reflection

If you are facing resistance because of your faith—whether from family, friends, coworkers, or society—you are not alone. The narrow road is not easy, but it is worth every step. Every tear, every trial, every moment of pain is producing in you a greater glory.

Ask yourself:

• Am I avoiding hardship by compromising my faith?

• Do I view my struggles as confirmation that I’m walking with God—or as signs to turn back?

• What would it look like for me to "carry my cross" today?

Let these questions realign your heart with the truth that walking with God is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ in the trouble.

🌅 Closing Thoughts

God never promised an easy road, but He did promise His presence on the road. The path may be narrow, and the burdens may be heavy, but you are not walking alone. Jesus walks beside you, strengthening you, guiding you, and preparing a crown of glory that far outweighs every challenge.

Hold fast. Keep walking. Your reward is not only in heaven—it is found in every step you take with Him.

🙏 Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to walk with You, even when the road is hard. Strengthen my heart when I feel weary and give me courage when I face rejection or trials for Your name. Help me to carry my cross with joy, knowing that You walk beside me and that my labour in You is never in vain. Let me not be swayed by ease or comfort but anchored in Your truth. May my life reflect the beauty of walking faithfully with You—no matter the cost. In Jesus' name, Amen.