Choose Your Hard
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 NIV
Recently, I was talking with a friend about some big decisions they were facing. As we discussed the pros and cons of staying where they were or making a big change, I found myself saying something that has been on my heart a lot lately: “No matter what you choose, it’s going to be hard. You just have to choose your hard.”
That phrase stuck with both of us. It’s easy to think that if we just switch jobs, move to a new place, or start a new chapter, the difficulties will vanish. But the truth is, every path comes with its own set of challenges. Leaving a toxic job might mean dealing with financial instability. Staying might mean enduring difficult relationships. Starting a business might give you freedom, but it also comes with stress and responsibility. Every road has rocks.
The key isn’t to look for the easiest path. It’s to seek the one God is calling you to walk, even it’s uphill for a time. We have to ask ourselves: "Which hard is worth it? Which struggle leads to growth, joy, and alignment with God’s purpose?"
God never promised us a life without hardship. In fact, Jesus told us quite clearly that trouble is part of the deal. But He also promised us peace that only His presence can bring in the midst of it.
So today as you read this, don’t be discouraged by the fact that life is hard. Instead, ask God to help you choose the right hard, the one that refines your character, strengthens your faith, and brings glory to Him.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. –James 1:2-3 NIV
Reflect: What “hard" are you facing right now, and how can you seek God’s wisdom in choosing which challenge to embrace?
Prayer: Lord, thank You for reminding me that I don’t have to walk an easy path. I just have to walk the one You’ve laid out for me. Help me to have discernment when I face decisions, and the courage to choose the hard that brings me closer to you. When I’m tempted to chase comfort, redirect my heart toward what is right and purposeful. Strengthen me for the journey ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Recently, I was talking with a friend about some big decisions they were facing. As we discussed the pros and cons of staying where they were or making a big change, I found myself saying something that has been on my heart a lot lately: “No matter what you choose, it’s going to be hard. You just have to choose your hard.”
That phrase stuck with both of us. It’s easy to think that if we just switch jobs, move to a new place, or start a new chapter, the difficulties will vanish. But the truth is, every path comes with its own set of challenges. Leaving a toxic job might mean dealing with financial instability. Staying might mean enduring difficult relationships. Starting a business might give you freedom, but it also comes with stress and responsibility. Every road has rocks.
The key isn’t to look for the easiest path. It’s to seek the one God is calling you to walk, even it’s uphill for a time. We have to ask ourselves: "Which hard is worth it? Which struggle leads to growth, joy, and alignment with God’s purpose?"
God never promised us a life without hardship. In fact, Jesus told us quite clearly that trouble is part of the deal. But He also promised us peace that only His presence can bring in the midst of it.
So today as you read this, don’t be discouraged by the fact that life is hard. Instead, ask God to help you choose the right hard, the one that refines your character, strengthens your faith, and brings glory to Him.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. –James 1:2-3 NIV
Reflect: What “hard" are you facing right now, and how can you seek God’s wisdom in choosing which challenge to embrace?
Prayer: Lord, thank You for reminding me that I don’t have to walk an easy path. I just have to walk the one You’ve laid out for me. Help me to have discernment when I face decisions, and the courage to choose the hard that brings me closer to you. When I’m tempted to chase comfort, redirect my heart toward what is right and purposeful. Strengthen me for the journey ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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3 Comments
Such a good check! So good.
So much truth, Theresa - good reminder today!
This is one of my favorite versus and I reflect on it daily along with Jeremiah 29:11, my other favorite! I think they do well to balance my walk.