What are effective strategies for relying on Jesus in difficult times?
Relying on Jesus during challenging times involves several spiritual disciplines and attitudes that keep one anchored in faith:
- Prayer: Continuous communication with Jesus through prayer provides strength and comfort. Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV encourages, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
- Scripture Reading: The Bible contains numerous promises and stories of God’s faithfulness in difficult times. Meditating on these can bolster faith and provide guidance. Psalm 119:50 NKJV says, "This is my comfort in my affliction, For Your word has given me life."
- Fellowship: Staying connected with a community of believers who can offer support, encouragement, and prayer is crucial. Galatians 6:2 NKJV instructs, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
- Worship: Engaging in worship, even when it's hard, shifts focus from the circumstances to the sovereignty and goodness of God. Acts 16:25 NKJV illustrates this with Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns to God in prison.
Remembering God’s Past Faithfulness: Recalling how Jesus has helped in past difficulties can strengthen trust in His provision and protection for the current challenges.