When you feel worn down and discouraged, the idea of “fighting the good fight” might seem like a distant, overwhelming task. But remember, you’re not alone in this, and God never calls us to something without providing the strength to carry it through. Even when you feel like your heart is barely holding on, He is there to carry you. Fighting the good fight of faith doesn’t mean never feeling weary or burdened—it means pressing on, however slowly, toward the One who gives strength. And remember, Jesus is always faithful.
Here are some ways to stay anchored in Him, even in times of struggle.
1. Lean into God’s Strength, Not Your Own
When you feel exhausted, remember that our strength alone isn’t what keeps us going—it’s God’s strength within us. Paul reminds us that God’s “power is perfected in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, BSB). It’s okay to come to Him as you are, bummed out and tired, and ask Him to give you His strength. Fighting the good fight sometimes means simply resting in Him and allowing Him to renew your spirit.
2. Be Honest in Prayer
God doesn’t ask us to pretend to be strong. Pour your heart out to Him, even your discouragement and frustration. Psalm 62:8 tells us, “Pour out your hearts before Him; God is our refuge.” When you feel weighed down, let your words spill out to the One who understands you completely. Honest prayers, even when all you have are cries or tears, are powerful. God meets us in that raw honesty, offering peace and strength in exchange for our worries.
3. Stay Connected to the Word
God’s Word is a wellspring of hope, truth, and encouragement that meets us right where we are. Even a few minutes spent meditating on a single verse can breathe life back into you. Take heart from passages like Isaiah 40:31, “But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles.” The Word reminds us of God’s promises and His faithfulness to sustain us, even when we’re running on empty.
4. Reach Out for Support
God didn’t intend for us to walk through struggles alone. Talking with a friend, pastor, or someone who can pray with you and offer encouragement can make a huge difference. James 5:16 says, “Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Sometimes, our biggest burdens lighten when shared, even if all we need is someone to sit with us in our struggle.
5. Remember That Faithfulness, Not Perfection, Is Key
Fighting the good fight of faith isn’t about never stumbling; it’s about getting back up and moving forward with God. Even small steps, when taken in faith, are meaningful. As Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:13–14, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Keep your eyes fixed on Him, taking each step as you’re able, trusting that He is working in you even when it feels slow. Remember, Jesus is always faithful—even when our faith feels small, He remains steadfast.
6. Reflect on Past Victories
Remember how God has come through for you in the past. Recalling times when He strengthened or comforted you can rekindle hope. The psalmists often did this, bringing to mind past deliverance as a way to trust God for future battles. Psalm 77:11-12 says, “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds.” Remind yourself that God has been faithful before and He will be faithful again.
7. Set Your Eyes on the Eternal Perspective
Scripture reminds us that our present struggles are temporary in light of eternity. In 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Paul encourages us, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” This doesn’t diminish the reality of pain or difficulty, but it encourages us that every step we take in faith moves us closer to the glory that awaits us with Christ.
8. Hold Tight to the Promise of God’s Presence
The greatest encouragement in the fight of faith is that God is with us through it all. Hebrews 13:5 assures us of His promise, “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” Even when you don’t feel strong, your Savior stands beside you, holding you and helping you carry on. When you’re too weary to fight, let this promise be an anchor for your soul: He is fighting for you. Remember, Jesus is always faithful, even when we feel lost or too weary to carry on.
In these times of discouragement, take comfort in knowing that your journey is one God has walked with many others before you. The One who knows your heart also knows how to bring strength to it. Even if you can only muster a tiny step of faith, it’s enough. He treasures your perseverance, and He sees your struggle. Through it all, hold fast to His promise that He will sustain you and bring you through in victory.
