Struggles as Chrisitans and how to overcome them.

Chapter 2: Faith in the Midst of Struggles

When we face struggles, it’s hard to feel our faith. Yes, I did mean feel. Let’s be honest, while we base our faith on facts, we like to have the good feelings as well. Those feelings of peace when we pray. The feelings of joy when a long-standing prayer is answered.

But sometimes the positive feelings are but a distant memory. We should try and remember them at these times.

yellow candles on black surface/struggles

Pain has a way of shaking the foundations of what we thought we believed. This leaves us in a state of confusion and doubt. For Christians, moments of heartbreak or loss can make faith feel distant—almost unreachable. It’s as if the very essence of divine love has vanished into thin air.

We are lost and broken. The God we have always turned to has turned a deaf ear.

Questioning God

We might question whether God sees us in our moments of despair and doubt. Is He even listening to our cries for help? We grapple with feelings of abandonment during our darkest hours. We feel isolated as the weight of the world presses down on our shoulders. And yet, it’s often in these valleys that grace begins to whisper. It softly reminds us that we are not alone.

Elijah

Elijah knew this firsthand when he was hiding from Queen Jezebel. (I Kings 19:9-18). He knew his life was over, but God spoke to him quietly and gently. Elijah was rescued.

Just like Elijah, each breath we take can be a testament to resilience. We slowly recognize God’s presence that surrounds us. He urges us on to embrace our struggles as part of a greater journey toward healing and understanding

In these moments of desperation, a flicker of hope urges us to seek the light midst the shadows. The very act of searching for that light can lead us to a deeper understanding of faith. Our struggles become a pathway to greater strength and resilience.

“Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’” – John 20:27

Real-Life Reflection: Maria lost her husband suddenly, and in the quiet aftermath, her faith felt fragile. She prayed, but the silence was deafening. Finally, she quit. Doubts crept in—not just about God’s love, but His presence. She longed for proof, like Thomas did.

And what met her wasn’t condemnation, but comfort. Friends showed up unasked. She read Scripture that spoke directly to her ache, and peace that slowly returned. Her faith didn’t roar back—it flickered quietly into place.

Devotional Questions:

  • When has pain challenged your faith?
  • What helped restore your trust in God during that time?
  • How does God often respond to us in our doubt?

God bless, and have a great day.