Are we transformed by struggling or we are transformed by striving?

A question was posed on Face Book to a small group that I have decided to be blessed by and contribute to: Topic: Are we transformed by struggling or we are transformed by striving? In writing a response I was encouraged and as a result I am posting it here to encourage you. Are we transformed by struggling or we are transformed by striving? Based upon the teachings and examples of Scripture we are transformed by both. It seems to me that they work together like faith and works (1Peter 4:12-19). We can’t have one without the other.

For example, our works or actions prove that we have faith. It is the same with struggling and striving.Our struggling produces in us an innate desire to strive or press towards something. The struggle propels us to strive toward the mark of the high calling because we know that we have an inheritance, a promise, and a reward. Every struggle for the sake of Christ should be viewed as a glorious privilege (1Peter 4:14) because it means that God’s glory rests on us and every struggle and trial perfects in us godly character. Romans Chapter 5 encourages us to rejoice in our struggles. We rejoice because we understand what the will of the Lord is (Eph. 5:17). We understand that God works all things together for our good even our struggles (Rom. 8:28). Our struggles produce in us patient and unswerving endurance. Endurance or fortitude produces in us maturity of character, approved faith and tried integrity. This kind of character produces in us the habit of joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation (R.om 5:3-4). With all of this (God’s great working or way of perfecting) in mind, we must be careful of struggles brought about by our own rebellion and disobedience because it is then no more glory, but a certain looking to of judgment (Heb. 10:27). The Bible teaches us that there is a consequence for all of our actions: “Do not be deceived [and deluded and misled;] God will not allow Himself to be [sneered at, scorned, disdained, or] mocked [by mere pretensions or professions or by His precepts being set aside. He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God.] For whatever a man sows, that and that only is what he will reap. (Gal. 6:7 -amp). God is glorified when we win every victory His way. It may not look like it in the natural (i.e. when we look like a “punk” because we refuse to argue back or tell someone off even if we are right), but spiritually we win because our weapons are not carnal (2 Cor. 10:4) and we see past the natural and war spiritually upholding spiritual truths- understanding that God is getting the glory out of the situation somewhere (i.e. by shaping our character, by allowing a unbeliever to witness self-control and love in our God empowered ability to be a “punk” for Jesus). Let me stop right here because I can write forever. I have a passion for empowering women of all ages and walks of life, because I know where God has brought me from. So be encouraged and know that it is in our struggle that we prove that we are striving to be that one Jesus will proclaim to be - which is a good and faithful servant (Matt. 25:21). Be Blessed, Sonia Kong