Walking in Faith: Trusting God through Life’s Challenges
Introduction
Life is full of challenges—unexpected losses, difficult decisions, and seasons of uncertainty that test our faith. As disciples of Christ, these trials are not without purpose. I remember growing up in apartments in Bellevue, WA. We had huge speed bumps in the apartments. One day, I was traveling up to Taylor River with some friends, and part of the road had washed out, but it was anything but smooth. Someone commented on how bad it was, to which I replied, this isn’t anything you should see the speed bumps in our apartments. The trials we face are to prepare us to handle the uncertainties of life. They are not without a purpose. They are opportunities to grow closer to God, develop spiritual resilience, and deepen our trust in Him. James 1:2-4 reminds us:
“Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that testing your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (NASB 1995).
Walking in faith means choosing to trust God even when the path ahead is unclear. It’s about believing in His promises, relying on His strength, and seeing challenges as a means of spiritual transformation. This blog explores the nature of trusting God, shares real-life examples of faith in action, and provides practical ways to grow in trust during life’s difficulties.
The Nature of Trust in God
Trusting God is not simply an intellectual exercise but an active and relational commitment. It involves surrendering our fears, doubts, and desires to Him, believing that He is faithful and good. Proverbs 3:5-6 encapsulates this beautifully:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
To trust God means to rest in His sovereignty and wisdom, even when we cannot see the full picture. This trust is cultivated through a growing relationship with Him, rooted in prayer, Scripture, and the testimonies of His faithfulness in our lives and the lives of others.
Illustration: A Story of Trust in Action
Emma, a young mother, faced one of the most challenging seasons of her life when her husband lost his job. The uncertainty of their financial future weighed heavily on her, and she struggled to maintain hope. One evening, while reading Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble”—Emma felt a renewed sense of peace. She decided to lean into her faith, trusting God to provide for her family.
Emma began praying daily for wisdom and provision. As days turned into weeks, she saw small but significant signs of God’s care—a neighbor unexpectedly dropped off groceries, and a job opportunity arose for her husband. These moments reinforced Emma’s trust in God’s ability to meet their needs.
Emma’s story demonstrates that trust in God is not about having all the answers but about believing that He is present and faithful. Her decision to rely on Him transformed her perspective, allowing her to find peace amid uncertainty.
Why Trials Are Essential for Spiritual Growth
Trials, though painful, are an integral part of discipleship. They refine our character, deepen our faith, and teach us dependence on God. In Romans 5:3-5, Paul writes:
“And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope. And hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
God uses challenges to shape us into the image of Christ, cultivating virtues like patience, humility, and resilience. Just as a potter molds clay through pressure, God molds our hearts through life’s difficulties, preparing us for His purposes.
Practical Steps for Trusting God During Challenges
Trusting God in difficult times is not always easy, but it is possible with intentional practices that draw us closer to Him. Here are practical steps to help cultivate trust:
- Turn to Scripture for Encouragement
God’s Word is filled with promises of His faithfulness and care. Meditate on verses like Isaiah 41:10:
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will also help you, I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Allow these truths to anchor your heart when fear or doubt arises.
- Develop a Habit of Prayer
Prayer is a lifeline that connects us to God’s strength and guidance. Share your burdens with Him and ask for His wisdom and peace. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to bring our anxieties to God in prayer, trusting that His peace will guard our hearts and minds.
- Reflect on God’s Past Faithfulness
Take time to remember moments when God has provided for you in the past. Keeping a journal of answered prayers or significant spiritual milestones can serve as a powerful reminder of His faithfulness.
- Seek Support from Fellow Believers
Community is a source of strength in times of difficulty. Share your struggles with trusted friends or mentors who can pray for you and offer biblical encouragement. As Galatians 6:2 urges, “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.”
- Embrace Worship as an Act of Trust
Worship shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness. Singing hymns or listening to worship music can uplift your spirit and remind you of His sovereignty.
The Fruit of Trusting God
When we choose to trust God, even in the face of trials, the result is a life marked by peace, joy, and resilience. Trust does not eliminate challenges, but it transforms how we experience them. Isaiah 26:3 promises:
“The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace because he trusts in You.”
This peace allows us to confidently navigate difficulties, knowing that God is with us and working all things for our good (Romans 8:28).
Moreover, trusting God enables us to become a witness to others. When those around us see our faith in action, it can inspire them to seek God in their own lives. Our trust becomes a testimony of His faithfulness and love.
Closing Thoughts
Walking in faith means trusting God not just in the easy moments but in the challenging ones. Our faith is refined in the valleys, our character is strengthened, and our relationship with God deepens. Challenges are not obstacles to be avoided but opportunities to grow in Christlikeness.
If you are facing difficulties today, do not lose heart. God is with you, sustaining you and guiding you through every trial. Lean into His promises, rely on His strength, and trust that He is at work in your life. As you walk in faith, you will discover that God is faithful, His grace is sufficient, and His peace surpasses all understanding.