I can do all this through him who gives me strength.–Philippians 4:13 NIV
Recently, I had a conversation with a fellow author, speaker, and podcaster. This person has an impressive resume and is on the fast track to incredible success as a publishing professional. Yet, as our conversation continued, we learned that we’d both suffered tremendous losses, setbacks, and horrific challenges during our career pursuits. I was surprised at how much this outwardly successful person had battled. No one would know looking from the outside. It seemed as if, like me, this colleague continued to live in the valley and the mountaintop simultaneously.
In times like these, I love to reflect on the scripture Philippians 4:13, which reassures us that through Christ, we can find the strength to overcome any challenge. No matter our setbacks, we can tap into a bold and unwavering faith to guide us. Instead of allowing setbacks to defeat us, we can use them to demonstrate our reliance on God’s strength. We can face each obstacle with confidence, knowing that the limitless strength of Christ empowers us. With bold faith, we can boldly declare that we can do all things through Him who strengthens us.
It’s essential to find the strength to overcome challenges in times of adversity. Here are four steps to help us develop bold faith despite setbacks.
1. Embrace the Power of Faith
The first step in developing bold faith is to embrace the power of faith itself. Acknowledge that setbacks are a natural part of life, but with unwavering faith in Christ, we can navigate through them. Rather than being consumed by fear and doubt, we can believe we have the strength to overcome any challenge through our faith.
2. Turn Setbacks into Opportunities
Instead of allowing setbacks to defeat us, we view them as opportunities to demonstrate our reliance on God's strength. Each obstacle can serve as a chance to grow in faith and resilience. Embrace setbacks as moments to showcase the unwavering faith that empowers us to face adversity.
3. Seek Guidance and Support
Developing bold faith doesn't mean facing challenges alone. Seek guidance and support from fellow believers, mentors, and the community. Share our struggles and victories and allow the collective faith of others to strengthen us.
4. Affirm Your Strength in Christ
Boldly declare that we can do all things through Christ, who gives us strength. Affirm this truth daily, especially in the face of setbacks. Remind ourselves of the limitless strength that comes from our faith in Christ, and let it propel us forward with unwavering confidence.
With the assurance of Philippians 4:13, we can develop bold faith and overcome setbacks. Embrace the power of faith, turn setbacks into opportunities, seek guidance and support, and affirm our strength in Christ.
By doing so, we can boldly declare that we can do all things through Him who gives us strength!
Prayer: Dear Lord, sometimes I struggle and feel weak. Especially when I’m faced with disappointments and setbacks. Please show me how to lean on and depend on you to receive limitless strength that flows abundantly. Amen.
Your turn: How do you strengthen your faith? What do you do in times of weakness and despair? Have you ever lived in the valley and on the mountaintop as the same time?
I hadn't considered the possibility of being in the valley and on the mountain top at the same time. I have experienced a closeness to God while walking through the valley that strengthened me to persevere through trials. Courage comes through depending upon Christ for the outcome and taking that first step in faith. He is able to achieve through me what He asks me to do.