Life often feels like an unpredictable sea, full of crashing waves and unpredictable currents. At some point, most of us are pulled into an undertow, swept into a place that feels impossibly dark and overwhelming. These moments of struggle are real, affecting everyone in different ways. It’s easy to feel mentally and emotionally off course, as though each day requires effort just to keep afloat.
In these times, doubts and fears can creep in, whispering questions like:
Does anyone truly care?
Am I on the right path?
Though difficult seasons leave a mark, they also have the power to shape us in profound and unexpected ways. The struggles we endure often lead to growth, greater understanding, and the development of inner strength. When fear, regret, and uncertainty try to pull us down, there is an opportunity to push back with courage and faith. We are not meant to remain in the depths but to rise above them.
By stepping out in faith, we reclaim our peace and find that even in the darkest moments, there is a way forward. These challenges may not disappear overnight, but trusting in God and the support of others provides us with the strength to overcome. As we walk through trials with courage, we emerge not only stronger but more confident in our purpose, thankful for the lessons that come with overcoming adversity. Through faith, we find that we are equipped to face whatever comes next, stepping boldly into the future with renewed hope and resilience.
Tip #1: Pray Without Ceasing
When anxiety overwhelms you, I encourage you to pray, and don’t just pray for a few seconds. Take at least three minutes to bring your anxieties and fears to God. It doesn’t have to be eloquent. The only bad prayer is the one you don’t pray.
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” Sometimes, we forget just how much God cares. If a child came to you with their worries, would you leave them alone in their fear? No! You’d embrace them and comfort them. Our Heavenly Father does the same for us. So, cast your cares on Him.
Tip #2: Take Care of Yourself
Anxiety can often make us forget about our physical needs. But our bodies, just like our spirits, need attention and care. God has blessed us with material joys—from a goofy friend to a favorite snack. These gifts remind us to delight in life.
Next time doubt creeps in, take a moment to remind yourself of one of those blessings. Call up your friend, have a snack, or take a walk. Studies show that caring for your physical and emotional health can dramatically improve your mental well-being. Remember, you are worth the extra care.
Tip #3: Ask for Help
One of the best things you can do when you’re feeling overwhelmed is to talk with someone. At Grace, we offer counseling services with professionals who can guide you from a faith-based perspective. As Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.”
If you’re not ready for professional help, talk to a pastor, professor, or trusted friend. You don’t have to face anxiety alone. God places people in our lives to help bear our burdens.
Focus on Christ in challenging times.
When life feels overwhelming, it can be easy to fixate on our problems. However, shifting your focus to Christ can bring relief. Like a hiker who looks up to see the summit instead of staring at their feet, when you focus on Jesus, the path ahead seems more bearable. Jesus invites us to “come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Rick Pileci once said, “God can bring us peace. God can lift our burdens.” He reminded us that when life feels too heavy, you can turn to God because he loves and cares for you.
Find Strength in the Scriptures
Spending time daily in Scripture can help us navigate life’s challenges. We believe in the transformative power of God’s Word. Jesus himself reminds us in Matthew 4:4, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” When we spend time in Scripture, we build a foundation of faith that can withstand life’s storms.
In Joshua 1:8, we are encouraged to meditate on the Word day and night: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105), guiding us through every trial and challenge.
Matthew 7:7-8 reassures us of God’s attentiveness to our prayers: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” When we turn to Him in faith, He promises to provide the wisdom and strength we need.
I encourage you to immerse yourself daily in the Scriptures. God’s Word offers both the comfort and the courage to face whatever comes our way, reminding us that His faithfulness endures through every generation.
Obedience brings peace and guidance.
Another important principle that has helped you navigate challenges is the role of obedience. When we strive to follow God’s commandments, we invite the Holy Spirit to guide us. The Spirit provides comfort, direction, and strength during tough times. God will help you be where you are supposed to be. Sometimes, the answers we seek come when we least expect them, simply because we are moving forward in faith.
Growth Through Hard Times
Challenges are a part of life. They’re not fun, but they help us grow. When you reflect on the toughest moments in your life, you’ll see how much stronger you’ve become because of them. As C.S. Lewis once said, “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” Challenges are a part of life. They’re not enjoyable, but they help us grow. Reflecting on the toughest moments reveals just how much stronger we’ve become because of them.
The same applies to our spiritual and emotional growth. When we push through tough times with Christ’s help, we come out stronger on the other side.
So, whether you’re facing anxiety, doubt, or simply the stresses of college life, remember that growth comes through these trials. Keep your focus on Christ, immerse yourself in the Word, and stay obedient. You’ll find the strength to not only endure but thrive. Trust that God is with you every step of the way, helping you grow into the person He created you to be.
