Grace Upon Grace

Wrestling with God in the Joys and Trials of Life

I’m not a huge fan of wrestling.  Frankly, I don’t understand the rules of the sport.  Even so, the tagline for my blog is Wrestling with God in the Joys and Trials of Life.  To wrestle is to struggle without weapons.  Honestly, my faith journey feels like a wrestling match.  On the mat, I come face-to-face with God, as I contend for my faith.

Contending for My Faith

I am not interested in doormat faith.  Instead, I am searching for a faith that’s authentic and real.  On the wrestling mat, I lay down my questions, insecurities, burdens, and raw emotions, before a holy God.  I am searching for truth, God’s truth.  With vulnerability, I come to the mat seeking connection with my Lord and Savior.  With respect and honesty, I wrestle for a faith centered on Jesus.

Wrestling with God in the Joys and Trials of Life

Wrestling is a contact sport.  It is up close and personal.  During this spiritual wrestling match, I am learning who God is and fighting against my selfish desires.  Since both want power, it’s a messy struggle.  But in the process, I am slowly building strong and authentic faith.  This faith is based on God’s truth, not mine.   

…He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.  Colossians 4:12

Enter the Journey

Since wrestling is a spectator sport, I’m inviting you to my wrestling mat.  As I battle with sweat and tears, the reality of my faith becomes real.  The work is hard.  It takes continual practice.  I often don’t get it right.  But the biproduct is a growing relationship with Jesus and a faith that is mine.

Dear Jesus, my faith journey has its highs and lows.  Yet, You continue to pursue me with tender, loving mercy.  Thank you for always meeting me where I’m at and drawing me into a deeper relationship with You.  Amen.

Questions to Consider:

1. How do you approach God with your questions, thoughts and feelings?
2. I use a wrestling match analogy, but how would you describe your faith journey?

Faith Becomes Real on the Wrestling Mat