Hard times are here and worse times are coming. I want to be steadfast. I don’t want to falter, or faint, or turn aside. I don’t want to let Him down. I want to be stronger.
A stronger heart is not only possible, it is promised!
Paul prayed that God would grant us, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man. (Ephesians 3:16)
God tells us in His word to us, the Bible, that our adequacy for doing His will comes from Him. (2 Corinthians 3:5-6)
Apart from Christ we can do nothing (John 15:5); but with Him, we can do all things through Him who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
But HOW?
A strong heart is not automatic.
Here are keys to strengthening your heart:
Let the word of Christ dwell richly in you (Colossians 3:16).
Strengthen me according to Your word. (Psalm 119:28)
We need to know what God says and be able to apply it to the situations we face. We can’t dabble in it. I heard someone say we have to drink the word of God, not gargle.
We must mediate on God’s word. (Psalm 1:2)
We must guard our minds, relying on God’s word, not the lies of so many.
Decide to believe God, to trust God
Make permanent, firm decisions about your life based on the word of God. Determine to want God more than something apart from Him. Want God more than people’s approval. Want God more than apparent safety or escape from pain. Want God more than anything.
Don’t fear those who can kill the body. Fear God. (Matthew 10:28)
Decide to walk according to God’s word, even if scared
Let God’s word flow out of our minds and into our thoughts, words, and deeds.
If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. (John 13:17)
Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it. (Luke 11:28)
As we act in God’s strength, according to His word, we become stronger. It will be easier to do the right thing the next time. Do it scared, if necessary, knowing that obedience brings the peace of God.
Have fellowship with believers, helping them and letting them help you.
We can strengthen ourselves. (1 Samuel 30:6)
We can help strengthen others. (Luke 22:32, Isaiah 41:6)
Know that you CAN
Know, really know, that you are in this situation because God has you there. If you are there by the will of God, know this: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
God has made us sufficient to face it. Our adequacy is from God. (2 Corinthians 3:5-6)
Pray. And Pray. And Pray!
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Father, thank You that You are our almighty, loving, accessible Father. Thank You that You have us here are Your lights in the world, giving us opportunities and hard times to make You known to others. Thank You that You have made us adequate for the work You have for us. Please help us know You better and better, and consistently apply Your word to our circumstances. Please strengthen our hearts according to the richness of Your grace.
