I Choose Today to Trade Survival for Thriving

Everyone carries a life tool chest, filled with tools we use to navigate challenges. Before I became a believer, my tools were built for survival—just to get by. But when I met Christ, He began replacing those tools with ones that equipped me to thrive. These new tools came through faith, prayer, studying God’s Word, and enduring trials that taught me perseverance.

That is why James writes, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing” (James 1:2-4, NLT).

With every trial comes an opportunity to build our tool chest—tools we can use to grow and thrive in faith. I think of Joseph, who went through trial after trial, yet emerged as the leader God designed him to be. God used those very trials to equip Joseph with the tools he would later need to fulfill his purpose.

I’ve seen this in my own life. I graduated high school on time, but I was barely literate. For years, I simply survived, feeling unprepared and unworthy of anything more. But God had a different plan. When it came time to homeschool my daughter, I faced the daunting task of teaching her to read—something I could barely do myself. Through that process, God gave me the tools to not only teach her, but to teach myself. Each step built confidence, perseverance, and a love for learning. Eventually, He even led me to graduate college, something I never thought possible. Looking back, I can see how God replaced my survival tools with thriving ones, shaping me for His purpose.

The journey of life transforms our tool chest from mere survival tools to instruments of thriving, shaped by faith and perseverance. God’s tools—like patience, wisdom, and resilience—prepare us to overcome challenges and fulfill His purpose for our lives. Every trial becomes an opportunity to grow closer to Him and better reflect His glory.

As you reflect on your own journey, consider this: What tools has God placed in your life through trials? How has He replaced survival instincts with thriving faith?

“Lord, I count it pure joy for the trials You allow in my life. Thank You for equipping me with the tools I need to thrive, even when I feel weak. Grow my endurance and continue shaping me into the person You created me to be. May my life glorify You in every circumstance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Take a moment today to reflect on your life’s tool chest. What tools has God given you to thrive? Are there tools He’s asking you to let go of so He can replace them with something better? Share your reflections with a friend or journal your thoughts. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who might need to hear it.