Faith That Holds During Hard Times

We all face seasons when life feels hard. Often, it’s only later that we look back and realize God was with us all along. But how do we find strength to anchor our souls to God in the midst of affliction? The storms are relentless sometimes. Maybe for you, it is a loss, hurt, trauma, disappointment, or unfulfilled longing.

Sometimes, it feels like all we can do is survive and exist. We take it one day or even one hour at a time. Jesus told us to expect trials and sorrows. Thankfully, He also reminded us that He’d overcome the world.

The truth is we don’t know what will get resolved on this side of heaven. But we know the One who walks with us and weeps with us. And we can take Him at His Word. We know if we’re in Christ, we’re promised eternity with Him. This means an end to our suffering, grief, addictions and anxieties. Sometimes, the hope of heaven alone is what we cling to.

When I let my hardships define me, I have to stop and remember the truth. I remind myself who God is and what His Word says about me. For every pain we can think of, there’s an attribute of God we can rest in—something that will anchor our souls to eternal truth.

Where people abandon, God never leaves His children.

Where people deceive and do not keep their word, God is steady and unchanging.

All His words are true.

Where death's sting is sharp, God is the comforter and sustainer who has already conquered it.

We can stay anchored by reading Scripture that reminds us how we’re deeply loved. God created us in His image, giving us value, dignity, and worth—even if people have made us feel otherwise. Psalm 34:18 is a promise in the pain that God is close to the brokenhearted. This means He’s close even if we don’t feel close.

As we hold on to God’s promises, practicing gratitude can direct our minds to the truths that settle our souls. Even when it feels like life has collapsed with an impossible future, God’s character does not change.

I may not have the strength in my grief to thank God, but I can always thank Him that He’s steadfast and full of love toward me. I can be grateful that He’ll never leave me. I can remind myself that He’s my comforter and sustainer who equips me with strength and endurance. I can choose to take Him at His Word.

For every pain we can think of, there’s an attribute of God we can rest in—something that will anchor our souls to eternal truth.

Application Questions:

• What attributes of God can you put your hope in during this season?
• What Scripture or promise of God can you meditate on to keep your mind and heart anchored to Him?

Prayer:

"Jesus, thank You for being the trustworthy Savior of my soul. Thank You that I can stand on the truths in Your Word no matter what I’m walking through. Be my sustainer and comforter, and help me to remain anchored in You as I’m reminded of Your promises. Amen."

Lindsay Burt
Orlando, USA
Jesus Film Project