Life is a journey filled with mountaintops and valleys. There are moments when faith feels effortless—when prayers are answered, doors open, and everything seems to align perfectly. But what happens when life takes an unexpected turn? When prayers go unanswered, trials stretch on, and hope feels like a distant memory?
If you’ve ever struggled to hold on to faith in hard times, you’re not alone. Even the strongest believers have wrestled with doubt, discouragement, and exhaustion. The good news? Faith is not about never struggling—it’s about clinging to God even when we don’t understand.
Here’s how to keep your faith strong in the midst of difficulty.
1. Remember That God Is Still in Control
One of the greatest challenges of difficult seasons is the feeling that everything is out of control. The job loss, the heartbreak, the unexpected diagnosis—it can leave you asking, Where is God in all of this?
The truth is, God is still sovereign, even when life feels chaotic. He is working behind the scenes in ways we can’t yet see. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us of His faithfulness:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Even when life doesn’t make sense, we can trust that God is holding us up. He hasn’t abandoned us—He’s still writing our story.
2. Shift Your Focus from the Problem to the Promise
When we’re in pain, it’s easy to magnify the problem instead of magnifying God. We replay the disappointment, the rejection, the loss—until it consumes our thoughts. But faith requires us to shift our focus.
Peter learned this firsthand when he stepped out of the boat to walk on water. As long as his eyes were on Jesus, he did the impossible. But the moment he focused on the storm, he started sinking (Matthew 14:28-30).
Your situation may feel like a raging storm, but don’t let it pull you under. Shift your focus back to God’s promises:
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Psalm 34:17 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles.”
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.”
Your storm is temporary, but God’s promises are eternal.
3. Be Honest with God About Your Struggles
Faith isn’t pretending that everything is okay. It’s about bringing your fears, doubts, and struggles to God—even when you don’t have all the answers.
David, a man after God’s own heart, was incredibly honest in the Psalms. He cried out in pain, questioned why God was silent, and even expressed frustration. Yet, he always ended in worship. His raw honesty brought him closer to God, not further away.
If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to talk to God about it. Tell Him your frustrations. Ask Him the hard questions. Cry if you need to. He can handle it. And in your honesty, you’ll find His peace.
Psalm 62:8 encourages us: “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”
4. Surround Yourself with Encouragement
Faith isn’t meant to be lived in isolation. When struggles come, it’s tempting to withdraw, but that’s when we need encouragement the most.
Stay connected to a faith community. Whether it’s church, a small group, or trusted Christian friends, you need people who will pray with you and remind you of God’s truth.
Listen to faith-filled content. Worship music, sermons, and podcasts can shift your perspective and strengthen your faith.
Speak life over yourself. Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts, declare God’s promises over your life. Words have power!
Hebrews 10:24-25 says: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”
You were never meant to fight battles alone.
5. Hold on to the Bigger Picture
Difficult seasons often make us feel like our story is ending, but in reality, they are just a chapter. Joseph was betrayed, falsely accused, and imprisoned—but years later, he saw how God used every struggle for a greater purpose.
What if what you’re facing today is preparing you for something greater tomorrow?
James 1:2-4 reminds us:
“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.”
Your pain is not wasted. God is shaping you, refining you, and strengthening you for what’s ahead. The story isn’t over yet.
Engagement Idea: Let’s Talk!
Faith is a journey, and we’re all in this together. Let’s encourage each other!
What Bible verse helps you stay strong in tough times? Share in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Final Thoughts
Faith in difficult times isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does. Even when life is uncertain, God remains unshaken. He is with you, for you, and working all things together for your good.
So take heart. Keep believing. Keep walking by faith. And remember—you are never alone.