Devotionals

Different Stages Same Challenge

by Evelyn Alexander 
01/19/26
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Through every stage and situation of life, one thing remains the same: we’re called to be overcomers. Called to not give in to anger, despair, self-will, temptation – anything that can hinder our walk with Christ, or being able to enjoy His goodness. But lack of funds, a harsh work environment, family tensions or critical health issues, any or all and more can naturally make us feel overwhelmed, we then give in to our familiar feelings. But those feelings and emotions can hinder our walk of faith.

Walking by faith is what gives us stability even during hard times or traumatic storms. One day I asked myself what it truly means to “walk by faith”. I could give myself a canned or glib answer, but was seeking something more substantial – a deeper understanding that I could grab hold of, as do we all especially in troubling times.

The answer started taking shape when I realized it’s just another way we identify as “Christ followers.” We follow Him for we believe He holds the key for us becoming more like Him, overcoming with His grace whatever life throws at us. Which then points us to the importance of being a faithful student of God’s Word, for it is through the Word that we are able to personally get to know Jesus, who He is, why He came, and what He taught and modeled for us, so we too can be victorious overcomers. But it’s only when we’re willing to let go of our own self-will so we can develop a better understanding of His, that we will be “living by faith”.

When we choose to live our lives on the truth of God’s Word, the Bible, and the way of life it teaches us, instead of walking through life the world’s way, we are “walking by faith”, the way of our Savior, Jesus Christ, to true life, of which there will be no end.

“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.”  I John 5:4

Evelyn is now retired from a career in the Christian non-profit sector.