A Journey of Trust: American UnderdogSample

Let God Shape Your Passion with Character

During the entire time when Kurt was waiting to play on an NFL team, God was at work building his character. For example, when he was at a small, unknown college, he did the hard work as a top recruit. Later, Kurt promised to care for his family, and he was willing to stock shelves at a grocery store so he wouldn’t let his family down. He did not become bitter when cut by the Green Bay Packers. He was willing to have his dreams molded and shaped along the way. He let God build character instead of allowing circumstances to destroy his dreams.

Many others have similar character-building experiences built on a trust in God. In the Old Testament, Esther trusted God was at work while her people, the Jews, were being persecuted. She fasted and sought the Lord’s guidance in saving her people. God used Esther’s status as queen to save the Jewish people from execution through her faith in Him. Like Esther and Kurt, you, too, will also face difficult circumstances in your life. Trusting God in tough times provides an opportunity to let God build our character. We can see our lives count according to His purpose. We have a choice during times of waiting: Will you turn away from God, or will you trust that God is shaping your character?

Application Questions:

• Think about your own life. What circumstances have made it difficult for you to trust in the Lord?
• Take a moment in prayer to thank God for shaping your character under challenging times.