How do you find strength in God while going through pain? That’s part of the reason I wrote The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms. Pain often threatens to steal our energy, our strength, and our resolve. But finding strength in God while going through pain can provide solace and hope, especially in the midst of life’s greatest challenges. In several recent episodes of Your Hope-Filled Perspective podcast, I’ve chatted with guests about different types of pain. If you missed those episodes, you can listen here: physical/chronic pain, emotional pain, relational pain, spiritual pain, secondary pain, and grief and loss.
I vividly remember crying out to God in the middle of the night, with tears streaming down my face, “God if you don’t help me, I can’t do it. I need your strength.” The good news is that God doesn’t expect us to navigate this life in our own strength. Instead, He offers to be our source of strength. “The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation” (Exodus 15:2). Together, let’s find strength in God and explore how faith can guide us through the darkest times, providing comfort, resilience, and ultimately, healing.
In the face of adversity, human beings have always sought solace and strength from various sources, including faith in God. Faith in God offers an unparalleled comfort, especially in times of intense pain and suffering. Whether grappling with loss, facing chronic illness, or navigating through tumultuous times, faith has proven to be a beacon of hope and a source of inner strength for many. God provides extraordinary comfort during life’s most challenging moments which provides solace, reinforces resilience, and inspires transformation in times of pain.
The Power of Faith: How Believing in God Can Provide Comfort in Times of Pain
In times of immense pain and suffering, finding solace can seem like an impossible task. It is during these challenging moments that faith plays a significant role in offering a sense of comfort and strength. For millions around the world, their belief in God becomes a source of support, offering them renewed hope, resilience, and a guiding light through the darkest days.
- Faith as an Anchor in Turbulent Times: When confronted with pain, whether it’s physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual, faith acts as a steadfast anchor. Believing in God provides a sense of stability and purpose when navigating through life’s storms. It activates a profound trust in God, allowing individuals to find peace in knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. This knowledge provides an immense source of comfort during times of pain and adversity. “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” (Hebrews 6:19 NIV).
- Finding Meaning and Purpose: Pain often raises existential questions, making individuals question the meaning and purpose of their suffering. Faith in God can provide answers and bring a deeper understanding of the purpose behind the pain. Believers find solace in the belief that their suffering can serve a greater purpose and contribute to personal growth, compassion, or the strengthening of their relationship with God. This perspective grants a profound sense of comfort and allows individuals to find meaning even in the darkest of times. “It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes” (Psalm 119:71).
- Prayer as a Pathway to Healing: Prayer becomes a powerful conduit for healing, both physically and emotionally, during times of pain. Prayer is a means of expressing our innermost thoughts, fears, and struggles to God. The act of prayer provides a sense of relief from the weight of pain, offering an outlet for catharsis and emotional release, as well as surrender to God’s plan. Furthermore, numerous scientific studies even acknowledge the therapeutic effect of prayer on reducing stress, promoting resilience, and facilitating the healing process. “a prayer offered in faith makes a sick person well” (James 5:13).
- Community and Support: The power of faith is not limited to personal beliefs but extends to the support of a like-minded community. Religious communities including churches can provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie, creating a supportive network during times of pain. The shared belief system and the presence of people who empathize with one’s struggles can significantly alleviate the burden of pain. The community offers a space for individuals to seek guidance, receive encouragement, and find comfort in the shared experiences of others. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV).
- Hope in the Face of Despair: During dark and painful times, hope can sometimes feel elusive. However, faith establishes a foundation of unwavering hope by acknowledging that pain is temporary, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. The promise of a loving and compassionate God motivates believers to persevere, knowing that their suffering will be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful. “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV).
When pain and suffering permeate our lives, faith provides the much-needed comfort and strength to navigate through the storm. God offers an anchor in turbulent times, imbuing life with meaning, purpose, and renewed hope. Through prayer, a supportive community, and the knowledge that our pain has a purpose, we find solace and healing, enabling us to face our challenges with resilience and courage. The power of faith in times of pain is transformative, offering comfort, guidance, and an unwavering source of strength for those who embrace it.
Trusting in God’s Plan: Understanding that Difficulties Can Lead to Spiritual Growth
Life is a journey full of ups and downs, joys and challenges. Often, during difficult times, it is natural for us to question why we are facing hardships and whether there is any purpose behind them. It is in these moments that trusting in God’s plan becomes crucial. Understanding that difficulties can lead to our spiritual growth allows us to approach challenges with a renewed perspective and find solace in the belief that there is a greater purpose at play.
Hindsight is a great teacher. When we look back at the course of our lives, we can observe that our most significant personal growth often occurs during times of struggle. We often want the beautiful mountaintop experience, but the best fruit grows in the valleys. It is through overcoming obstacles, enduring pain, and experiencing loss that we evolve and develop resilience within ourselves as we find our strength in God. Just as a tree grows stronger when exposed to fierce winds, our spiritual growth can be propelled forward when faced with adversity.
Trusting in God’s plan does not mean that we blindly accept our circumstances or dismiss our feelings of despair. It means acknowledging our pain while maintaining faith that there is a greater purpose behind our trials and tribulations, knowing that God never wastes our pain. Understanding that our difficulties serve a purpose keeps us grounded and prevents us from falling into hopelessness or despair.
Often, it is in moments of desperation that we turn to and seek solace in our faith. The challenges we encounter can act as catalysts for deeper spiritual growth, as we recognize our reliance on God for our strength, direction, and comfort. By surrendering control to God, we can find peace and comfort, knowing that we are not alone in our journey.
Difficulties can also foster growth by shining a light on areas of ourselves that need improvement. Whether it be humility, patience, or forgiveness, challenging times reveal our shortcomings and present opportunities for personal transformation. By embracing these lessons and actively working on ourselves, we align our lives more closely with God’s purpose, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and becoming a greater reflection of his character in our lives.
The Reliance on God’s Word: Drawing Strength from Scripture to Overcome Pain
In times of deep anguish and pain, finding solace and strength can seem like an impossible task. However, throughout history, countless individuals have turned to the power of God’s Word to find comfort, healing, and the strength to overcome their suffering. The Bible offers wisdom, guidance, and profound encouragement to those who seek refuge in its pages, and offers encouraging testimonies of those before us who endured the most painful situations, yet God saw them through.
The Transformative Power of Scriptures
Scriptures, as the living words of God, are not merely ink on paper but a source of divine revelation that can powerfully impact the lives of those who read and internalize them. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path,” emphasizing the illuminating power of God’s guidance within scripture. By turning to the Bible, individuals can find the strength to navigate the darkest moments of pain and sorrow.
Drawing Spiritual Strength
When faced with pain, it is common for individuals to feel spiritually weakened or disconnected from their faith. However, through the study of scriptures, one can find rejuvenation and reconnect with God in a deeply meaningful way. In Isaiah 40:31, it is written, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This verse speaks directly to the empowering nature of reliance on God’s Word, offering the assurance that those who lean on Him will find their strength renewed.
Promoting Emotional Healing
Pain often takes an immense toll on an individual’s emotional well-being. Feelings of anger, bitterness, and despair can overwhelm the heart and mind. However, through scripture, one can find guidance towards emotional healing and a pathway towards wholeness. Psalm 34:18 states, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” reminding individuals that God’s love and presence can mend even the deepest wounds. By internalizing such verses, we can experience a sense of peace and restoration amid our pain.
Finding Purpose and Direction
During times of immense suffering, it is common to question the purpose and meaning of one’s pain. Scriptures provide profound insight into the redemptive nature of suffering and the transformative power it holds. Romans 8:28 proclaims, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse encourages individuals to trust in God’s plan, even amidst pain and hardship, reminding them that their suffering can be instrumental in shaping them for a greater purpose.
Overcoming Pain Hand in Hand with God
Scriptures offer a blueprint for navigating the pain-filled journey hand in hand with God, rather than relying solely on human strength. In Philippians 4:13, the apostle Paul writes, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength,” emphasizing the divine assistance available to believers. By leaning on God’s Word, individuals can access the strength necessary to face their pain head-on, knowing they are not alone in their struggles.
Finding Hope in God’s Promises: Understanding that God Will Never Leave You, Even in Times of Pain
In times of pain and hardship, it can be challenging to hold onto hope. The feeling of despair can consume us, making it difficult to see a way out. However, understanding and believing in God’s promises can provide solace and renewed hope, reminding us that we are never alone, even in our darkest moments.
The Bible is filled with promises from God, assuring us of His presence, love, and faithfulness. One such promise is found in Deuteronomy 31:6, which states, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” This verse emphasizes the unwavering presence of God in our lives. No matter how painful our circumstances may be, we can find comfort in knowing that God is always by our side.
The book of Psalms is another incredible source of hope and reassurance. In Psalm 34:17-18, it says, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” These verses beautifully depict God’s deep care for His children, especially during times of pain and sorrow. When we feel broken and crushed, God remains close to us, providing comfort, strength, and ultimately, deliverance.
Jesus Himself expressed this promise in Matthew 28:20, where He says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This declaration affirms God’s eternal presence in our lives. No matter how desperate or hopeless our situation may seem, God never abandons us. He walks with us through our pain, providing the hope and strength we need to persevere.
When we find ourselves struggling, it is common to question why God allows us to experience pain. It’s important to understand that pain and suffering are an unfortunate consequence of living in a fallen world. Yet, even in the midst of our suffering, God promises to work all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
God’s promises are not just empty words; they are guarantees rooted in His character. Unlike human promises that may falter or fail, God’s promises are steadfast and never-changing. Throughout history, God has proven His faithfulness time and time again. The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who faced unimaginable pain and suffering, yet were ultimately delivered and restored by God’s faithfulness.
Moreover, God’s promises are not only for the future. They provide comfort and hope in the present as well. They remind us that whatever pain we are facing, God is working behind the scenes, orchestrating a plan for our ultimate good. As we trust in Him, we can find hope amid our pain, knowing that God is faithful to His word.
It is essential to cultivate a deep and personal relationship with God, where we can actively seek and stand on His promises. This can be done through prayer, studying His Word, and surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who can encourage and uplift us. As we immerse ourselves in God’s promises, they become a source of strength and hope, allowing us to navigate through the storms of life with unwavering faith.
Surrendering Control to God: Learning to Let Go and Allow God’s Guidance in Times of Pain
In times of pain and suffering, it can be difficult to navigate through life’s challenges and find the strength to move forward. We often find ourselves trying to gain control over our circumstances, desperately seeking solutions and answers. However, surrendering control to God and allowing His guidance to lead us can provide us with the peace and healing we so desperately need.
Letting go of control is not an easy task, especially when faced with trials that seem overwhelming. It requires a deep sense of trust in God’s plan and a willingness to release our own desires, expectations, and preconceived notions of how things should be.
One of the first steps in surrendering control is recognizing our own limitations. As human beings, we often have a natural inclination to mitigate pain and discomfort. We strive to control everything around us, believing that it will bring us security and happiness. However, this mindset can lead to frustration and disappointment when we realize that we cannot control everything. By acknowledging that there are aspects of life beyond our control, we can begin to open ourselves up to the possibility of God’s guidance.
Surrendering control also means embracing vulnerability. It requires us to admit that we don’t have all the answers and that we need help. In times of pain, we may feel broken and lost, unable to find a way forward. But by surrendering to God, we allow Him to work in and through us, bringing healing and restoration.
Trusting in God’s plan is another integral aspect of surrendering control. We must have faith that God’s plans are always greater than what we can fathom. Even during pain, there is a purpose, though we may not see it right away. By relinquishing control, we allow God to unfold His plans for our lives, which may include lessons to be learned, personal growth, or a deeper reliance on Him.
Surrendering control to God also involves letting go of bitterness and resentment. Painful experiences can often leave deep scars, and it is natural to hold onto anger and blame. However, by surrendering these negative emotions to God, we can find healing and forgiveness. God’s love and grace have the power to mend our wounded hearts and restore our relationships, helping us to grow in compassion and empathy.
Learning to let go and surrender control to God is a journey that takes time and patience. It is not a one-time decision, but rather a daily commitment to trust and rely on His guidance. In moments of pain, we may find ourselves struggling to surrender, but through prayer and cultivating a deep relationship with God, we can gradually release our grip on control and allow His loving guidance to lead us towards a brighter future.
In conclusion, finding strength in God while going through pain is a transformative journey that offers hope, resilience, and spiritual growth. By acknowledging the inevitability of pain and turning to God for support, we can find comfort in His presence, surrender our pain to Him, and draw strength from our faith. Through prayer, community, and seeking guidance, we can navigate the darkest moments in life and emerge stronger, more compassionate, and faithfully grounded.
How do you find strength in God while going through pain? We’d love to hear in the comments below.
Friend, if you are dealing with chronic pain, or perhaps emotional, relational, or spiritual pain, grief, or loss, can I encourage you to pick up a copy of my book The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms. I know what it’s like, and I know how lonely the pain journey is. I share authentically and quite vulnerably about my own pain journey, in a desire to lend you my hand so you know you aren’t alone.
The Hem of His Garment
Now Available!
We all experience pain from time to time, and not just physical pain, but also emotional pain, relational pain, spiritual pain, grief and loss.
I’ve been there. I’ve experienced each one of those types of pain. I’ve asked the hard questions. I’ve searched the scriptures for biblical examples and lessons learned through pain and suffering. And I’m sharing a fresh perspective in my new book “The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms.”
Here’s what Shonda Whitworth, author of Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families and co-founder of Fortress of Hope Ministries, Inc., had to say about The Hem of His Garment: “Dr. Michelle’s courage, compassion, and faith fills every page of The Hem of His Garment. As a fellow pain sufferer, I’ve cried out, “God, can’t you give me a how-to guide?” God has answered this prayer for those who are walking through the valley of pain. Drawing from the experience of her own sufferings combined with biblical truths, Dr. B provides a step-by-step guide on how to walk through the darkness of pain yet radiate the glory of God. This book addresses the tough questions many silent sufferers want to ask but rarely discuss with others. Readers will find encouragement, support, and the inspiration to carry on amid their pain.”
The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, ChristianBook.com, Books-A-Million, and other fine book retailers.
Click here to learn more: The Hem of His Garment.
