Overcoming adversity, discouragement and self-doubt is something many of us have had to do throughout our lifetime. During these times you will have many turning points in your life. There will be crossroads, detours and dead ends to face; each one will become a turning point. Making that turn and navigating through life’s challenges will always be a time you must rely on your relationship with Jesus; trusting in His guidance, peace and power. 

Discouragement unchecked always leads to giving up and losing heart! Remember: The most affirming statement we can hear from God…“I will be with you!” 

Check out these four areas of overcoming:

1.) When adversity comes, accept it as an appointment with God.

Adversity is inevitable, particularly for those in the faith. It is a part of our walk in Christ. This is found in the writings of the Apostles Peter and Paul. “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trials which is to try you as though some strange thing happened to you…” (1 Peter 4:12) Fiery trials are not novel; some unexpected event that should surprise us. We will face trials but we can overcome them by the power of God working in us…the Apostle Paul speaks of that power as stated above. “That the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” It is His strength in us, “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.” When the fiery trials come, and they will come, we have an appointment with God. 

When Jehoshaphat was king of Judah, the people of Moab and Ammon, along with others, came to battle against him. “And Jehoshaphat feared and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.” (2 Chronicles 20:3) 

When this great threat came, notice what he did first. He sought the Lord and proclaimed a fast. He went on to call an assembly with all Judah, including their wives and children, as they stood before the Lord. Jehoshaphat proclaimed… 

“…we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.”

—2 Chronicles 20:12 

In their distress, they had an appointment with the Lord…their eyes were upon Him.

2.)  Strengthen yourself in the Lord: dig deep — find “Christ in You”

We are encouraged by the Apostle Paul to “lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.” (Philippians 3:12) When you lay hold of something, you grasp on to it with all your might! Likewise, you must lay hold of Jesus as He has laid hold of you. Dig deep within and lay hold of “Christ in you.” He will strengthen you! Satan will put up road blocks, throwing every arrow possible to stop you from fulfilling your calling in Christ. Discouragement, doubt, lies and accusations will come your way from the “father of lies,” to prevent you from finding the victory promised us in Christ. Jesus said…

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

—John 16:33b NLT

3.) Rather than being Discouraged: Find new Courage

“How do I find courage?” Is there a prescription for courage? 

Joshua took the lead when Moses died, and God spoke directly to him in the Book of Joshua, chapter one. Four times God told him, “Be strong and of good courage.” (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9, 17) 

Joshua was also told by God…

1. “I will not leave you nor forsake you.” Joshua 1:5
2. “Mediate in the book of the law day and night.” Joshua 1:8
3. “Do not be afraid.” Joshua 1:9

Our duty, just like the children of Israel, is to meditate on God’s Word, read it, study it, live it and expect it to work in our lives! Courage will certainly follow as we step out of our self-imposed boundaries. Courage requires action! Courage requires you to do something! You cannot sit idly by and call yourself courageous. Place your faith in God Almighty. 

Karl Barth, the renowned theologian, said this about courage…“Courage is fear that has said it’s prayers.” We step out in courage when we trust the promises of God, not only believing, but taking an intentional step of faith, expecting God to be with us.

4.) Meet the challenge, step up and embrace your next level of faith.

Throughout the Bible we see example after example of those who were challenged with all types of difficulties and obstacles: facing barriers of great bodies of water, giants much taller and stronger than they, armies and nations larger and better equipped than themselves. Yet, God encouraged them to look not at the size of the enemy, but look to the size of their God. His promises were given to find victory in the midst of overwhelming odds. His strength, His love and power as we face obstacles. Christ has given us victory over every obstacle we face as we press into His kingdom! Each step we take should be a step towards fulfilling God’s Word and promises in our life. Growing in grace and knowledge of our Savior Christ Jesus is what we are about. Just as all the heroes of the faith grew in faith, we must do the same. 

Now, step out, step up and meet the challenges that we all face in our walk with Jesus. It is a growing process that begins with each step we take in Him. 

Phil Barrett is an author and retired pastor (and my awesome dad). You can check out all his books on Amazon here.