Praying for Faith to Stand
Tragedy, trials, turmoil, and sorrow enter the life of every believer. We know this because Jesus said, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrow” (John 16:33 NLT).
Thankfully, God’s Word reminds us that we are not alone in difficult times (Isaiah 41:10) and we are assured that any trial that tests our faith is used by God to lead to spiritual wholeness (James 1:3-4). So what do we do when we lack the faith to withstand?
Philippians 4:6-7 provides us with one excellent starting point. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6, 7 NLT).
When life becomes difficult, as we are assured it most certainly will, we have an opportunity to see God work not only in our situation but also in building our personal faith. As we give our situation to God, which is often the hardest part, He gives us that ability to stand and endure the most difficult of times.
Prayer Directives
- Thank the Father for His presence that is with you even in the middle of difficult times. Praise Him for the strength and help that He has promised to you (Isaiah 41:10).
- Give thanks that the Lord is your refuge in this time of trouble and declare your trust in Him (Psalm 9:9, 10).
- Acknowledge your desperate need for God. Share specifically about your situation and release it entirely to the Father (Psalm 9:10, 34:17, 50:15, 145:18, 19; James 5:13–16)
- Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and discernment concerning your situation. Surrender every reaction and response to Him as He does so (James 1:5).
- Ask the Holy Spirit to give you an abiding peace (John 16:33).
- With thanksgiving and expectancy, continue praying over every aspect of your situation asking the Father to guard your heart and mind (Philippians 4:6, 7).
- Ask the Father to give you new ways to connect with the body of Christ and serve in the middle of your difficulties (1 Peter 5:7).
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