How to have Faith in the Midst of Adversity?

How can we keep trusting God when we don’t have the answers and haven’t had a breakthrough yet? We pray and pray but things haven’t gotten better… only worse. What do we do?

A word that was on my heart last year was trust. Trusting in the Lord and His promises is what can carry us but we also have to pair it with faith. Faith will produce hope in our lives that won’t go away.

The Bible’s definition of faith is: the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of realities not seen (Hebrews 11:1 NIV). Meaning that we believe that God is making a way even when we don’t see the evidence of it.

So how can we apply this to our lives?

As Christians, we have two options when we are faced with adversity. First, can either worry and have fear about what may happen. Second, we can have courage because of our faith. Brian Houston from Hillsong Church says, “To survive life’s harshest blows your faith must be robust, and resilient.”

I’m not just using these cliche words that have no real meaning. These words seriously have power when we apply it in our lives. Let me show you how…

Instead of saying things will never get better, start believing that God is making a way. He can carry out the impossible. Drop the negative mindset and worry and replace it with unshakable faith.

It takes a lot of courage to place your needs and future in God’s hands. But, this doesn’t mean that we quit trying! It means we do everything we can and realize God will provide the rest. We won’t ever be perfect but we can give our all and He will carry us the rest of the way. (Corinthians 12:9)

Another way we can apply this practically is by believing God’s promises for your life. What are some of His promises?

• To give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
• God will bless you and give you what you need (2 Corinthians 9:8).
• God will provide away out of temptation if you are struggling to do the right things (1 Corinthians 10:13)
• God will deliver you from all troubles (Psalm 34:19). Remember that your trouble and trials are temporary.

Do good. How are the ways we can do good?

• Don’t worry but pray about everything and you will receive peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).
• Give to your church around 10% of your income and trust me God will return more than you give (Proverbs 3:9-10).
• Use your gifts to help others (1 Peter 4:10-11).
• Love God and love others (see the definition of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

My hope for you is that you are strengthened by these truths. Remember God is fighting for you even when you feel like He is silent. My favorite verse below speaks to being courageous and staying encouraged in the face of adversity.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 NIV

Stick this verse on your mirror, memorize it, or save it on your phone to remind you to be strong and courageous! Or find another verse that encourages you that will keep your faith strong when tough times come. Do what you must to remind yourself that God is bigger than our troubles.

A Prayer For You

Lord Jesus, please give me the strength to make it through the hard times I’m facing now and that I will face in the future. Show me how to really believe in You and Your promises for my life. Help me to keep up my faith and keep doing good. I know You are helping me fight my battles even when I don’t see it yet. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What is your favorite verse for having faith? Let me know below!

Stay hopeful!