How to Keep the Faith in Difficult Times
- Jack Selcher
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Amid life's challenges, faith can often feel fragile. Whether it’s personal struggles, societal unrest, or global crises, difficult times can test our trust in God. Yet, it’s precisely in these moments that we can experience profound spiritual growth and renewal. As Christians, we are called not only to endure hardship but to be strengthened through it, growing deeper in our faith and discipleship. This process is not passive; it requires intentional steps to nurture our spiritual health, deepen our relationship with God, and continue serving others despite adversity.
The Foundation: Trusting God’s Unfailing Promises
At the heart of how to keep the faith in difficult times is the understanding that God’s promises are unshakable. Regardless of the circumstances we face, we can cling to the truth that God is sovereign and faithful. As Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." His nature remains unchanged even when the world around us seems unpredictable.
In moments of fear or uncertainty, it is vital to meditate on God’s Word and remember His promises. Scriptures such as 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.") reassure us that no matter what happens, God’s plans for us are good and are unfolding according to His perfect will.
Spiritual Growth amid Trials
Trials are not merely obstacles to endure; they are opportunities for spiritual growth. James 1:2-4 offers a perspective that is counter to much of the world’s thinking: “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. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
When our faith is tested, it is refined. Just as gold is purified through fire, our faith becomes strong and more genuine through the challenges we face. This growth is not merely surviving difficult times but thriving spiritually in them. It requires us to turn to God in prayer, seek His wisdom, and allow His Holy Spirit to work within us.
The Role of Discipleship in Spiritual Renewal
Discipleship is the process of becoming more like Jesus, and it is vital for renewing our faith during tough times. Jesus’s life is the perfect model of how to navigate hardship with grace and faithfulness. As His followers, we are called to follow in His footsteps, trusting in God’s plan and being instruments of peace and hope in the world.
Rev. Jack Selcher’s Christian Growth Resources highlights several key tools for spiritual growth that are essential in strengthening our faith and discipleship:
Discipleship Books: Through free eBooks, believers can access valuable resources that deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Christ, even in hard times.
Evangelism Training: In times of uncertainty, sharing the hope of Christ with others becomes even more crucial. Learning how to share our faith effectively can help strengthen our spiritual growth while spreading the love of Jesus.
Checking Spiritual Health: Assessing our spiritual health is a vital practice. In times of crisis, it’s easy to become complacent or distracted from our spiritual disciplines. Regular self-reflection helps us identify areas where we need to grow and seek God’s help.
Church Assimilation Strategy: Being part of a supportive church community is one of the best ways to renew our faith. This strategy helps newcomers feel welcome and connected, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual nourishment.
Incorporating these tools into our daily lives can impact our spiritual growth profoundly and help us stay grounded in our faith. Engaging with discipleship resources strengthens our walk with God and helps us navigate life’s challenges better.
Encouraging Others in Their Faith
While strengthening our faith is crucial, we are also called to encourage others in their walk with God. In difficult times, people around us may struggle with doubt or fear. As believers, we are called to bear one another’s burdens and to be sources of hope. Galatians 6:2 instructs us, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
Mentorship, prayer, and offering words of encouragement can be powerful ways to help others renew their faith. Whether through small group Bible studies, one-on-one conversations, or simply being present with others in pain, we can demonstrate Christ’s love in practical ways. By walking alongside others, we not only strengthen them but also grow in our faith and understanding of God’s love.
Practical Steps to Renewing Faith in Difficult Times
Commit to Daily Prayer and Bible Reading: Even when life feels overwhelming, take time each day to connect with God through prayer and reading His Word. This is the foundation for spiritual renewal.
Seek Fellowship: Engage with fellow believers who can encourage, challenge, and support you. Community is essential for spiritual growth.
Serve Others: Serving others, even in small ways, keeps our focus on God’s purposes and helps us grow in humility and love.
Practice Gratitude: Give thanks to God during trials. Gratitude shifts our perspective to see God’s faithfulness in every season.
Memorize Scripture: Having God’s Word hidden in our hearts is a powerful way to combat fear and doubt. Scripture reminds us of who God is and His promises for us.
Rest in God’s Presence: Sometimes, the most powerful way to renew our faith is to rest in God’s presence. He renews your spirit through worship, silence, and solitude.
Conclusion: Trusting God for Renewal
Renewing faith in difficult times is not a quick fix; it’s a journey of deepening our relationship with God and becoming more like Jesus. Through trials, discipleship, and a commitment to spiritual growth, we become stronger and more spiritually mature.
God promises that He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), and in His presence, we can find peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). By relying on His grace, embracing the tools for growth, and seeking to serve others, we can experience spiritual renewal and become powerful witnesses of His love and faithfulness, even in the most difficult times. See additional free spiritual growth resources for Christians.
Author: Carol Nasir has a passion for faith-based writing and counseling.
See free spiritual growth resources for Christians at https://www.christiangrowthresources.com
God has empowered me to write His Power for Your Weakness—260 Steps Toward Spiritual Strength. It’s a free evangelistic, devotional, and discipleship e-book. Pastors have used it in Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia to lead more than 3,689 people to Christ and teach the basics of Christianity to 10,051 people. I invite you to check it out.
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