When Faith Seems Elusive

Is anyone free from adversity? No matter how blessed our lives may be, we all face struggles at some point. If that’s a given, then maybe the question is really how do we handle those trials?

That’s where faith comes in.

But sometimes when we’re discouraged or feeling defeated, our faith is not only weak, we can’t find at. We may even believe that God has abandoned us.

Do you remember the Bible story about David and Goliath? When David stood to fight the giant, he said, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37 NIV).

Recalling what God has done for us in the past can help renew our faith and trust that he will do the same in the present.

During a very difficult time in my life I wondered if things would ever feel normal again. Every day took a measure of strength to keep going.

Then, after a long and dreary winter, I took a walk outside. Tulips, daffodils, and crocus were blooming at every turn. I strolled with a lighter step than I had in months. I breathed in fresh air, tilted my face to the warm sun, and listened to the birds sing. I suddenly realized that spring had not only arrived in my neighborhood, it had also come to my heart and soul.

Life was going to be good again—life was good again. God had brought me through.

Now when I deal with hard times, I put myself back in that place and remember those colors, smells, and sounds, and I remind myself of what God has done in my life. It gives me faith that he can and will do it again.

When finances become a strain, I remember how God has always provided.

When I worry about stepping into unfamiliar territory, I trust that God will relieve my fears and provide me with what I need to be successful.

Does faith seem elusive? Are concerns weighing you down? Does it feel like God is nowhere to be found?

Allow past blessings and victories to help you embrace faith for the present and the future.

Dawn