And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6

I was experiencing 67 degree weather in January as I ventured up the sandy path toward the beach. The warmth from the sun thawed my bones, bringing a relaxed and renewed sense of peace. Protected by the dunes on both sides, I noticed a slight breeze, but as I stepped out onto the beach the wind was howling! Ribbons of sand danced on the surface of the beach creating patterns resembling zebra stripes. The wind fashioned the sand into works of art as it encountered shells, sculpting creative dune-like mounds of different shapes and sizes. Sea gulls attempting to take flight failed to make head way. The sound of breaking waves combined with the whistling wind made it hard to hear anything but my own thoughts.

As I struggled against this force of nature God had created, I was reminded of faith challenges I have experienced and how hard it is to go against the flow. I saw the sand racing past as individuals caught up in the difficulties and trappings of life. Conformed by the world’s definitions of success, wealth, and high speed impatience, they can be literally carried away.

Gusts of wind threatened to blow me off balance as if a large crowd of people pushed and shoved. Continuing my trek, I turned around, the wind to my back. Walking backwards, I noticed that I needed to exert more energy and that it was slower going. I couldn’t cover as much ground as when I was facing the wind head on. Turning around again, I beheld what was to become the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen.

Faith challenges are hard but they are a fact of life. God understands that by pushing on towards the prize we exercise that faith. And when we exercise, we build strength to face the oncoming challenges of life.

Are you facing strong winds in your life, threatening the delicate balance of your faith? They may be God’s way of fashioning a work of art in you! Don’t turn your back. You may miss the reward God has waiting for you. Walk in faith, seeking Him and building those spiritual muscles! God will be pleased.

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.
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