Life is filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected challenges. It can be difficult to navigate these hardships, especially when it feels like we are doing it alone. However, as believers, we are called to build our inner strength and rely on Jesus to guide us through life’s difficulties. In this blog post, we will discuss five steps to help you move from hardship to hope.
Step 1: Awareness – You Need Jesus
The first step to building inner strength is to recognize that we cannot handle life on our own. We need Jesus to guide us and give us the strength to persevere through difficult times. In John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” It is important to stay connected to Jesus through prayer and reading the Bible, allowing Him to lead us through the storms of life.
Step 2: Obey Even When It Is Hard
Following Jesus isn’t always easy. We are called to obey even when it is difficult. In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” This means that we must put aside our own desires and follow Jesus, even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient. Obeying God’s commands will not only strengthen our relationship with Him but also build our inner strength.
Step 3: Trust That God Sees You – You Are SEEN!
When we are going through hardships, it can be easy to feel alone and forgotten. However, we must trust that God sees us and is with us every step of the way. In Psalm 34:18, it says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God sees us in our pain and is always there to comfort us. We are not alone.
Step 4: Choose Contentment
Choosing contentment is easier said than done, but it is essential to building inner strength. In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul says, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” We must choose to find contentment in all circumstances, knowing that God’s grace is abundant and available to us.
Step 5: Keep Going – Don’t Quit
Finally, we must keep going and not give up. Our breakthrough is on the other side of our surrender. In James 1:2-4, it says, “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. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” It is through perseverance that we build our inner strength and grow closer to God.
Building inner strength is not an easy task, but it is essential to navigating life’s difficulties. By following these five steps – awareness, obedience, trust, contentment, and perseverance – we can move from hardship to hope and rely on Jesus to guide us through all of life’s challenges.
I talk more about this subject and share part of my own hardship, leaving an abusive marriage after 15 years on a train in the middle of the night, losing everything in this episode of The Fit Soul Podcast. God saw me and took care of us, and I share my story in hopes that it encourages you in your own hardships and struggles.
Remember, you are not alone, and God sees you.
Keep going, don’t quit, and trust in the Lord with all your heart.
Amy
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