Whether we struggle to make it to the end of the month, a friend betrays our trust, or a family member gets hurt, we have no shortage of problems. When this happens repeatedly, it can be difficult to maintain hope.
When dealing with these emotions, we may find ourselves turning inward. We stop sharing our thoughts and feelings because we have been ignored in the past due to personal worries and concerns.
If you find yourself in a place like this, please know that you are not alone. I completely empathize with you, and so does God. Every time we find ourselves in this hopeless state of mind, we must remember what God says in the Bible. These memories may not alleviate all our worries and fears, but they can help us a lot.
1. Galatians 6:9
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
The apostle Paul tells us in this passage that there is no need to give up. Harvest at the right time. If we try to follow Jesus, our lives will become even more difficult. Those who live according to their sinful flesh will not have much trouble in life because they are doing exactly what their sinful flesh wants them to do.
The constant struggle between the flesh and the Spirit is recorded by Paul, “For the flesh desires to be contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit to be contrary to the flesh. For they are at odds with each other, so do whatever you wish. But if the Spirit guides you, you are not under the law” (Galatians 5:17-18).
Satan seeks to prevent people from being productive for the Lord. The Lord will cause obstacles, problems, and difficulties for believers who truly follow Him. We can fight back against him by putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).
If you are going through a difficult time right now, know that it is not God’s fault. God is not trying to get you through this difficult time. It’s either Satan causing it, the effects of living in a sinful world, or sinful human nature. It is never God who causes problems in our lives. Knowing this changes our perspective and gives us peace that God is on our side (Romans 8:31).
Instead of giving up, we need to keep trying. The road ahead will be difficult, but it will be worth the challenge. May God help you as you climb this mountain and overcome it by His grace. Life may become even more difficult. But rest in the truth that you belong to the Savior. Everything will work out in the end.
2. Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).
When I hit rock bottom, Philippians 4:13 often comes to mind. This Bible verse does not refer to being the best in sports (as it is often interpreted), but it does mean that through Christ we can do all things, including facing problems, difficulties, and pain. We can be content even in our dissatisfaction because the Lord is with us. God gives us the strength to face any situation with hope and peace (Psalm 28:7).
When we are at the end of the line, we need to cling to the power of Jesus. The power of Jesus keeps us going. Although the days may seem dark, we can find rest in the comfort and strength of the Lord. Jesus helps us and surrounds us with His support. It takes the form of prayer, Bible reading, encouragement from friends and family, and soaking in the beauty of God’s creation.
3. Matthew 19:26
“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With men it is impossible, but with God all things are possible'” (Matthew 19:26).
When we look at our own circumstances, we can easily become discouraged. I have a chronic illness, and as I get older, my health gradually declines. But I can trust God because my eternity is in Him. My life may be filled with pain, but my eternity will be filled with glory, and so will yours.
Breathe in and breathe out. All things are possible with God. May this truth comfort your heart today. Yes, you may still be struggling, but you will have new hope for life. You can praise the Lord with your heart and voice.
We never have to doubt God. Paul tells us, “Now to him who immeasurably accomplishes all that we ask and imagine according to the power that works in us, be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21).
4. 2 Chronicles 15:7
“But be of good courage, and do not let your hands be weak, for your labors will surely be rewarded” (2 Chronicles 15:7).
When everything isn’t going well, it’s easy to feel dissatisfied with life and feel hopeless. In times like these, we need to remember 2 Chronicles 15:7. All our efforts will be rewarded at the right time. We may not receive these rewards in this life, but we are storing up crowns in heaven (1 Corinthians 9:24-25).
God is happy to see us doing good things, and we should continue to follow Him even if there are others around us who are not following Him. God is not pleased with us turning our backs on Him and walking in the path of sin. Temptation comes at different times, but we must remain strong in our faith. Ask the Lord for help when you are weak. When we are weak, God is strong (2 Corinthians 2:9-11).
5. Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for good to those who love him, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
Paul spoke these words to the church in Rome, but they apply to us today as well. Sure, times may be tough, but God can use even the scary things for His purposes. God does not cause these terrible events, but He can bring good out of them.
God gave everyone free will. But sadly, many people use it for evil. There is no need to blame God for the bad things in our lives because they are not God’s fault. It is impossible to control everything that happens in our life. But we can trust God for the outcome. God will make our struggles powerful. It may seem hard to believe at times, but God uses even the darkest things we experience for His glory.
Never doubt God’s ability to bring light out of darkness (2 Corinthians 4:6). God helps us no matter what situation we face and gives us the strength we need to continue in life. The key is not to give up. Trust in the Lord and continue to follow Him with all your heart, body, mind, and soul (Proverbs 3:5-6). Choose to hold Jesus’ hand and believe in Him even in this dark season.
Photo credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/kevron2001
Vivian Bricker earned a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry and then a Master of Arts with an emphasis in Theology. She loves theology, ministry, and all things helping others learn about Jesus. Check out more of her content on Cultivate.
