Seeking Strength Within the Struggles of Life

If there’s one common diagnosis (besides viral illnesses) I see often in my medical practice, it’s anxiety. We all carry worries. High social standing or a stellar financial portfolio do not make us immune to life’s challenges. They only lead us to believe we can handle every set back on our own. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Everyone needs help coping with anxiety at one time or another. So, where do we look for strength within the struggles of life?

Over the past few weeks, I’ve focused my blog posts on a few practical tips to decrease anxiety. I’ve based my writing on four major takeaways from one of my favorite Bible passages in Philippians chapter 4. In this letter originally written to the church in Philippi, the Apostle Paul encourages us to Find Joy, Refocus Your Thoughts, Learn Contentment, and depend on Prayer: A Pathway Toward Peace of Mind. (You may revisit these topics by clicking the link attached to each title).

If you’re anything like me, you may look at this list and wonder if any single one of these endeavors is even humanly possible. How on earth are we to feel joy or contentment when we find ourselves in the middle of horrific circumstances? Paul gives us the answer in a simple sentence near the middle of the passage. Don’t miss it.

Christ gives me the strength to face anything.

Philippians 4: 13 CEV

When trouble comes, look to the One who calmed storms, walked on water, and raised people from the dead. Fix your eyes on Jesus.

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Hebrews 12: 1-3 NIV

Jesus is the source of strength within the struggles life sends our way.

The Bible describes Jesus by many terms common in our day-to-day existence. Living Water. Bread of Life. Light of the World. All these titles speak to a different aspect of His character. However, for the context of this post, I’d like to compare Jesus to an item unfamiliar to His first century followers but commonplace for us today. An automobile battery.

I know. It’s a bit sacrilegious. But think about it. A car battery is an essential part of any vehicle. It is the power source. Without it, you’re going nowhere.

An electrical current flows from the battery enabling the automobile to function. In the same way, the gift of the Holy Spirit flows through believers, offering us power and strength to face whatever trials come our way.

God’s Spirit doesn’t make cowards out of us. The Spirit gives us power, love, and self-control.

2 Timothy 1:7 CEV

Power exits the automobile battery through cables connected to the rest of the car. Often, other people are used as conduits of God’s Spirit. They offer strength within the struggles through their words and loving deeds.

When worries weigh you down, seek the aide of wise counsel. Lean on trusted family or friends, a pastoral counselor, or a licensed therapist. Your primary care provider can be a great resource and listening ear. And don’t negate the role of medication. Sometimes this is necessary when anxiety or depression are due to a biochemical imbalance, not simply stressful circumstances.

Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.

Proverbs 1:5 NIV

Rather than trying to fix all your problems solely through your own strength, look to Jesus for the means to overcome. Study His life as an example of how to live with joy and love despite the trials. As you read the scriptures, your heart will be opened, and the Holy Spirit will flow within you and through others offering you the strength and power to persevere.

I don’t claim to be an expert in Biblical truth or medical knowledge, but I know what has helped me find strength within the struggles in my own life. These tidbits I offer to you as a gift. Take what you need and file the rest away for future use. I’m including in this post a shortened version of the major points. Feel free to copy this for your reference. (Click on the Fear No More photo to enlarge)

This next week the holiday season begins with a Thanksgiving feast, continues through Christmas, and ends on New Year’s Day. Although this time may prove stressful (and it typically does), I pray you find strength in the midst of this joyous celebration. And may the Lord bless you and keep you, this day and forever more. Amen!