5 Tips for Stronger Faith while Facing Times of Crisis
"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness." Yet sometimes, when the world seems to be in crisis all around you, resting in the Lord seems nearly impossible. With worldwide pandemics, civil unrest, and violence on every news headline today, how can you turn your focus to the Lord and find your hope in Him? In the year of COVID, you may find that your stress and anxiety levels are higher than normal. How should you respond?
As a believer, you have practical tools you can use to get help when you need it. Here are five steps to take to keep your faith strong, even in times of crisis. Whether the crisis is a global one or simply the stress of managing your college experience, these practical steps will help you get through the storm with your faith intact...
- Pray (Build Your Faith)
As a believer, your ultimate hope relies not in the people and circumstances around you, but rather in the God who is above it all. Prayer is one of the most powerful resources we have, yet it's one we tend to ignore. During crises, prayer is vital...
- Meditate (Calm Your Stress)
Meditation is powerful, especially for the Christian. Meditation is not some whimsical clearing of your mind. It is rather a spiritual discipline when you close out the world around you and focus your mind and heart on prayer and Bible study. It is taking the time to reflect on God's attributes and interactions in the world, based on what you learn in Scripture. It is thinking deeply about the truths you are learning in your own Bible study...
- Talk to Someone (Family or Professional)
Times of crisis are extremely taxing on you emotionally and spiritually. Sometimes, you are going to need someone else to help you sort out what you are feeling and experiencing. It is OK, even as a Christian, to look for help...
- Read Your Bible (Calm Your Anxiety)
When the news around you feels physically painful, turn it off and grab your Bible. The Bible is the ultimate source of comfort, especially in a troubled world. The Psalms, where King David cried out to the Lord over and over, are incredibly calming...
- Stay Active (Exercise)
Taking care of your physical body can actually improve your spiritual and mental health. Exercising releases endorphins, which are the "feel good" hormones that boost your mood. In times of crisis, you need to exercise regularly to keep negative feelings at bay...
Read the full post from Geneva College.