Finding Comfort and Strength When Life Gets Tough
Life isn’t always sunshine and calm seas. Storms—unexpected challenges, heartbreaks, and worries—are bound to come our way. Whether it’s trouble at work, health scares, rocky relationships, or money problems, we all face moments when fear and chaos seem to take over. The big question is: Where is God when our world is turned upside down?
When Storms Hit: Remember, You’re Not Alone
Even the Bible reminds us that dark times are real. Psalm 23:4 says, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” God doesn’t promise a life without storms, but He does promise to walk with us through them.
There’s a story in the Gospels where Jesus and His friends are in a boat, and a huge storm suddenly hits. Waves crash, wind howls—and Jesus? He’s asleep! His friends panic, but Jesus wakes up and calms the storm with a word. Sometimes, it can feel like God is silent or asleep when we’re afraid, but the truth is, He’s always present, ready to help us through the chaos.
The Truth Will Set You Free
When fear takes hold, it can be paralyzing. But Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching… then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32). Fear loses its power when we trust in what God says. By learning and living by God’s Word, we can break free from the grip of fear.
Why Facing Your Fears Matters
Fear isn’t just an emotion; it’s a force that can sabotage your future. It can hold you back from living out your destiny, keep you stuck in old patterns, and rob you of peace. The Bible says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). You’re not meant to live timidly—God has given you inner strength to overcome whatever comes your way.
How to Break Free From Fear
· Remember Your Freedom: Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” You don’t have to let fear control you. Claim your freedom and refuse to be weighed down by worry or the past.
· Let Go of the Past: Isaiah 10:27 reminds us that God wants to lift burdens from our shoulders. The past doesn’t define you—God’s love and power do.
· Embrace God’s New Ways: Sometimes fear keeps us stuck in old habits. Mark 2:22 encourages us to let God give us fresh ideas and new perspectives, trusting Him to lead the way.
· Choose Who You Serve: Matthew 6:24 warns us we can’t serve both God and money. Don’t let fear of lack or change drive your decisions. Trust God to provide and guide you.
· Don’t Be Double-Minded: James 1:8 says being stuck between fear and faith makes us unstable. Choose faith—even when it’s hard—and trust God with the outcome.
· Put Fear in Its Place: Romans 8:7 explains that fear is part of our old way of thinking. When we let God’s Spirit lead, we find peace and purpose.
· Use Your Authority: Jesus gives us power over fear and anything that tries to hold us back (Luke 10:19). You are not powerless!
· Fight With God’s Word: 2 Corinthians 10:4 says our greatest weapon is the truth of God’s Word. When fearful thoughts come, speak God’s promises over your life.
· Trust God Completely: Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart. Don’t rely only on your understanding—ask God for help and guidance.
· Remember: No Weapon Formed Against You Will Succeed: Isaiah 54:17 promises us that God is stronger than anything that comes against us. Financial struggles, setbacks, or criticism—none of it can outweigh God’s plans for you.
· God Raises the Standard: Isaiah 59:19 says when trouble comes like a flood, God will lift you up. Fear tries to make itself bigger, but God always has the last word. When you fill your mind and heart with God’s Word, fear loses its grip.
Practical Steps to Hear God in the Storm
· Look: Open your eyes to how God is working, even in small ways. Gratitude shifts your focus from the problem to the Provider.
· Listen: Quiet your mind. Pray, read Scriptures, and listen for God’s gentle whisper. Sometimes, peace itself is the answer.
· Learn: Every storm can teach you something: about yourself, about God, and about what really matters. Lean in and grow.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Storms are inevitable, but so is God’s faithfulness. Fear will try to choke your dreams and cloud your vision. But when you choose faith—reminding yourself of God’s promises and trusting Him each day—you’ll find strength, peace, and hope no matter what you face.
Remember: You are not alone. God walks with you, calms the storm, and leads you into freedom. Stand firm, face your fears, and let God’s voice guide you through the storm into brighter days ahead.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 