soul journey 
Life is full of challenges—unexpected setbacks, loss, uncertainty, and moments of deep distress. In these difficult times, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, wondering where God is in the midst of the struggle. But hardship is not a sign of His absence; rather, it is an opportunity to deepen our trust in Him and allow our character to be refined.
The Bible reminds us in James 1:2-4 (NIV):
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Instead of allowing distress to consume us with fear and doubt, we can choose to see trials as a path to spiritual growth. Trusting God in difficult times doesn’t happen overnight—it is a daily decision to rely on His promises, surrender our fears, and allow Him to strengthen our character. Here are some daily practices to help cultivate trust in God and grow through life’s challenges.
Daily Suggestions for Trusting God and Growing in Character
1. Start Your Day with Prayer and Surrender
Before the worries of the day take over, begin with a moment of prayer. Surrender your fears, doubts, and challenges to God, acknowledging that He is in control.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) reassures us:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
✅ Daily Practice: Each morning, take time to pray and give God your concerns. Speak them out loud, write them in a journal, and trust that He is already working on your behalf.
2. Meditate on God’s Promises
When life feels uncertain, anchor yourself in God’s Word. His promises remind us that He is faithful, He sees our struggles, and He will never abandon us.
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) encourages us:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
✅ Daily Practice: Choose a Bible verse each day that speaks to trust, peace, and strength. Write it down, memorize it, or repeat it whenever fear creeps in.
3. Focus on What You Can Control and Leave the Rest to God
Worrying about things beyond our control only leads to stress and frustration. Instead, focus on what you can do—pray, take action where possible, and trust God with the outcome.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
✅ Daily Practice: When you feel overwhelmed, make a list of what you can control and what you need to release to God. Let go of the things that are beyond your reach.
4. Choose Gratitude Over Worry
Even in distress, there are blessings to be found. Gratitude shifts our focus from what is wrong to what is still good, reminding us of God’s faithfulness.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) instructs us:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
✅ Daily Practice: Keep a gratitude journal. Each evening, write down three things you are thankful for, even on the hardest days.
5. Surround Yourself with Faithful Encouragement
Trusting God is easier when you are surrounded by people who uplift and encourage you. Community helps remind us that we are not alone in our struggles.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) says:
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”
✅ Daily Practice: Connect with a friend, mentor, or faith-based group. Share your burdens, pray together, and seek encouragement from those who trust in God’s faithfulness. Join us on Messages From The Road daily at 7:30 a.m. eastern standard time for wonderful support and encouragement during Readings From The Road recordings.
6. Reflect on How Challenges Are Strengthening Your Character
Difficult times refine us, making us stronger, wiser, and more dependent on God. Instead of asking, “Why is this happening?” ask, “How is God growing me through this?”
Romans 5:3-4 (NIV) teaches us:
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
✅ Daily Practice: At the end of each day, reflect on how you responded to challenges. Did you lean on God? Did you grow in patience, faith, or resilience? Recognizing growth will encourage you to keep trusting.
Final Thought:
Trusting God in times of distress isn’t about ignoring difficulties—it’s about knowing that He is with us through them all. Hard times are opportunities for growth, shaping our character, and drawing us closer to Him. As we practice surrender, prayer, gratitude, and reflection, we will find our trust in God deepening and our faith becoming unshakable.
Psalm 46:1 (NIV) declares:
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Whatever you are facing today, remember: You are not alone. God is walking with you, strengthening your heart, and using every challenge to mold you into the person He created you to be. Keep trusting, keep growing, and let His peace fill your heart.
