How Christ Strengthens Us in Our Trials
We often hear the phrase or scripture “We can do anything through Christ, who strengthens me!” What does this mean? How can Christ, who isn’t here physically, help me with MY EARTHLY struggles. How do people find comfort in this phrase?
I think in order to find the comfort in it, you have to experience the truth in it. Sometimes I don’t always believe, and can feel like Christ isn’t there or can’t strengthen me. I also haven’t always believed, but something I’ve put into practice and discovered for myself.
I think to find the comfort in this phrase, you have to ask yourself 3 questions:
Do I believe there is a God?
Do I believe all that God says?
Do I believe God can speak to me?
If you’ve answered yes to these questions, then you can make this phrase ring true to you!
Let me share an experience I had that solidified this concept for me.
When I was pregnant with my second child, I was very sick for the first 16 weeks. If I was upright, I felt like I was going to throw up. I only actually threw up 3 times, but I had intense nausea all day long. I couldn’t eat very much. I think I lived on apples and popcorn most days because that was the only thing that sounded good. I had prayed and prayed for the Lord to take it away:
“God, you understand, right? I have another child here to take of, I have a little part-time job, I’m struggling with depression, and can’t be stuck inside all day.”
He had to take it away, it just made sense. I knew He could do it.
Well, He didn’t. It was my trial to face. No medicine or home remedy provided relief. I felt stuck. The only thing I knew to do, was to reach out to God. He was the only one who had the means to help. At first, I was mad. I was so mad at Him. However, when I eventually came down from my high horse, I said”
“Okay God, if I have to do this I’m going to need your help.”
And He was there. I can’t tell you how he was always there, but I know that when I asked for his help to get out of bed, or to do just one load of laundry, I found the strength to get it done. And sure, you can chalk it all up to coincidence, but it was OFTEN only on the days I prayed and asked for His help. One day I was really frustrated and I just wanted to cry. I prayed “Lord, today, I’m just going to cry” and I heard Him say “That’s okay, let’s cry today!” I knew He was there comforting me. He definitely gave me strength in my trial.
How can the Lord Strengthen You in your Trails
Hearing His voice.
I believe that we have the power to receive personal revelation for ourselves from God. He speaks to us. Whether that’s a feeling in our hearts, or a thought in our minds, He is there. I have received many feelings of peace or feelings that everything was going to be okay. You can learn how He speaks to you through consistent listening and then implementing what you learn into your life. The more you practice, the more you know how He can speak to you.
He gives you added strength physically, emotionally, or mentally.
I don’t know how this happens, but you find the strength to do things that you couldn’t do before. If you ask for it, He will assist you. I believe that we have family members who have passed on who are cheering us on and coming to our aid. They are our angels, and He sends them to help us. You can probably say it’s all coincidence, but do it enough times, and you may not always see it that way.
Reading Scripture and Pondering.
Reading God’s word is important to assist in learning and to find answers to questions. He has given us scripture as a guidance for us. Read them, and you will feel closer to God.
Prayer.
A constant flow of conversation with God. Asking him for help, guidance, peace and strength. An opportunity to pour our hearts out to Him, even if it’s anger…especially if it’s anger, He can take it. Use Him as your personal counselor and best friend. He’s always there.
Wow!…This was so helpful.❤
Thanks LaShaunda!