The Courage to Stand: Drawing Strength from God in the Face of Adversity

Audio By Carbonatix

Have you ever faced a moment when fear threatened to overwhelm you? Perhaps it was when you received unexpected news from the doctor or watched a loved one struggle through a difficult season. Maybe it was the uncertainty of a job loss or the anxiety of stepping into a new and unknown chapter of your life. We all have those times when our worries feel too heavy to bear. It’s then we can draw strength from God, just as the heroes of the Bible and the characters in our favorite stories do. 

As an author, I explore these themes through the characters’ lives I create. One of the most inspiring aspects of writing fiction is the opportunity to imbue my characters with a personal bravery that speaks to readers. In my novels, you’ll meet characters like Helena from From Dust and Ashes, who faces the daunting challenge of rebuilding her life after World War II, and Sophie from The Chronicles of The Spanish Civil War, who must navigate the treacherous waters of espionage and resistance during the war. These women, though fictional, draw their strength from a very real source: their unwavering faith in God.

When facing my own struggles, I often think about these characters (who are inspired by real people!) and the courage they show. The same God who helped them stand firm is with us through every hardship. 

The Bible offers countless examples of individuals who found the courage to stand in the face of adversity. Consider David, who faced Goliath with nothing but a sling and his faith in God (1 Samuel 17). Or Esther, who risked her life to save her people (Esther 4:16). These stories are not just ancient tales but testimonies of what God can do through those who trust Him.

Three Ways to Find Courage in Adversity

1. Prayer and Reflection: When faced with daunting circumstances, the first step is to turn to God in prayer. Pour out your heart to Him, as David did in the Psalms. Reflect on His promises and let His Word be your source of comfort and strength. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

2. Embrace Community: God often works through the people He places in our lives. Just as Esther had Mordecai and Paul had Barnabas, we, too, need our faith community’s support. Seek out trusted friends, mentors, and fellow believers who can pray with you, offer encouragement, and help you bear the burdens you face. Galatians 6:2 exhorts us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

3. Remember God’s Faithfulness: It can be easy to forget how God has been faithful in the past. Remember to recall His goodness and the ways He has provided for you before. This practice strengthens our faith and reminds us that the God who was faithful yesterday will be faithful today and tomorrow. Lamentations 3:22-23 assures us, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of Your power and grace. In times of adversity, help us to draw strength from You. Fill our hearts with the courage to stand firm, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. Surround us with a community of believers who can support and uplift us. Remind us of Your faithfulness and guide us through each challenge we face. May we trust in Your promises and find peace in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. Can you recall a time when God gave you the strength to face a difficult situation? How did His presence and promises help you through it?

2. Who are the people in your life that you can turn to for support and encouragement during challenging times? How can you be a source of strength for others in your community?

3. How can you remind yourself of God’s past faithfulness in your life? How can these reminders help you trust Him more fully in present and future trials?

As we navigate the trials and tribulations of life, let us remember that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Through prayer, community, and remembering His faithfulness, we can find the courage to stand firm, drawing our strength from Him who never fails.

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Additional Resources

Daily Bible Podcast

We’re Tricia and Michelle, two friends inviting you to join us in reading through the Bible chronologically this year. Reading the Bible every day can be a challenge. We’re here to summarize each day’s passage and provide action steps … in under 15 minutes. Grab a buddy and join our community. Take the plunge, and let’s read through the Bible together. We’ll be cheering you on all the way!

You can join us using your own One Year Bible© (if you’d like to purchase one, you can grab your preferred version using the links below). Or you can print up the One Year Chronological Reading Plan. If you don’t have a copy of the One Year Bible©, we will have the exact passages for the next day in the show notes. You can also subscribe to the One Year Chronological Bible Reading plan on the YouVersion Bible App.

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