15 verses for strength in challenging times

There is a lot to disagree on these days, but there is one thing we can likely all agree on…this year has been a challenging one.

In more ways than one, stress levels and anxieties have risen. Hope has taken a backseat to despair. Happiness has given way to frustration. Optimism has turned into negativity.

Thankfully, for those of us in Christ, this is not our permanent home. When the day-to-day events turn turbulent, we can turn to the One who loves us and cares about every minute detail in our lives. His promises remind us that His love is steadfast. That He will carry us through the rough waters of life, that when we are burdened, He will take that load from us and take it upon Himself. Jesus is our strength, our anchor, and our stronghold.

Next time you need a boost of strength for these challenging times, flip through the pages of God’s precious Word and find the peace tucked within.

Other posts on this blog you may enjoy:

the importance of perseverance

13 ways to help someone going through a difficult time

10 Bible verses to start off your day

7 ways to inspire others

Movie Monday: Unplanned

7 ways to inspire others

Several people have lately inspired me. My mom, whose severe disabilities stemmed from an accident, is one of them. While she suffers from chronic pain and has little use of her arms and legs, it doesn’t stop her from serving others. It doesn’t stop her from being a prayer warrior and a mentor. Her strong faith, in the midst of the challenges she faces each day, is such an encouragement.

A man at the gym where I teach cycling takes one of my classes. That may not sound unusual as cycling is a popular way to get and stay fit. The unique thing about David? He is blind. That doesn’t stop him from navigating the way from his apartment to the gym and joining in the class. A co-worker told me that he also does the weight circuits without assistance. He never complains and never gives up.

A friend of ours works as an oxygen deliveryman. What sets him apart is that during his deliveries, he stops to shovel driveways, change lightbulbs, retrieve the mail, and any other things he can do to assist his elderly and housebound customers. He doesn’t have to do these things. He chooses to serve others.

How can we inspire others?

Lend a listening ear. Inspirational people are good listeners. They take the time to really hear people.

Persevere.  People who inspire don’t give up. They continue to fight the good fight. Even in the midst of the hardest moments, they trust the Lord to see them through. And they encourage others not to give up either.

Care. Those who inspire care about others. They are concerned for their welfare and seek to help when possible.

Put others first. Those who are inspirational are not selfish. They seek the good of others above their own good.

See the best in others. We are so often guilty of jumping to conclusions and finding the worst in others with the judgment of their motives. Instead, give people the benefit of the doubt.

Realize God has a plan for your life. Inspirational people know that, despite what obstacles they face, God is working all things for their good (Romans 8:28). Times can be tough and faith will be tested, but God will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

Take an active role in the lives of others. Encourage them to be their best.