All of us at one time or another has gone through a tough time. In the past, I’ve talked about the different types of struggles that people go through – mental, physical, financial, and spiritual struggles. The way we handle those troubled times is very important. Some face it alone, thinking that only they can get themselves out of that situation. Some break down and just let their troubles consume them. Others try to find solutions for their problems by seeking the counsel of others. I have found only one sure way to rise above the raging waters and that was by seeking God.

“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Behold, all those who were incensed against you shall be ashamed and disgraced; They shall be as nothing, and those who strive with you shall perish. You shall seek them and not find them— Those who contended with you. Those who war against you shall be as nothing, as a nonexistent thing. For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you’.” – Isaiah 41:10-13

            In those times of trouble, you need to learn how to trust in Him and know that everything will be ok. To trust in God means we pray about what is troubling us, leave our troubles at His feet, and know that God will take care of us. We also need to be patient and ready to listen and obey when we get an answer. At times, God will tell us to make move. Other times God will tell us to be still and wait on Him. Whatever the case may be, we need to learn how to listen for Him and obey Him when the time comes.

“But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” – Luke 11:28

            I know that personally, this was something that I struggled with for a long time. I hated the idea that I didn’t have any control over my own life. However, as I’ve said before, anytime I took control, I would just make things worse for myself. Once I learned how to let go and give God the control, I found a peace that I can’t even begin to describe.

“and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7

            Reading His word is just as important as praying. The Bible was given to us so that we may know how to navigate our way through this crazy world. It was given to us so that we may get to know who God was, is, and will forever be. God gave us His Word so that we may have comfort, wisdom, peace, and strength. As Charles Stanley once said, “All the answers that you seek can be found in His word”.

            When I was a slumbering Christian, I didn’t realize the importance and the power the Bible had. To me, it was just a book. I now realized that I was blinded from the truth. This book has become my life raft. I remember one time when I was going through something very difficult in my life, I was crying uncontrollably. I was praying for God to help me and the only comfort I could find was in hugging the Bible as if my life depended on it. I felt as if I were to let go, even for just a second, I would drown. It felt as if I was hugging Jesus Himself.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:1, 14

            When we rely on Jesus, we can overcome anything. By reading His Word, we get to know Him better and are given the answers we seek. When you pray, pray sincerely and know that He is listening to you. Be still and He will direct your path. He will give you peace, wisdom, and the strength you need. Just know that you are not fighting alone. Jesus is with you and He has already won.

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57