We all have to deal with adversity. It is inevitable that we will have failures, that we will struggle with the loss of a close family member or friend, or that our faith will be tested.
Remember what brings you peace.
Sometimes renewing our faith is like flexing a muscle. If we have been still for a long time it is harder to get up and walk; let alone run. In times of stress it is important to note the things that calm you and make you happy. Do you have a favorite place in your city or town to go to? Do you enjoy long walks? Have you taken time out to be with your loved ones recently? By finding peace your mind is renewed, you are reminded of the importance of your reaction to each situation, and how to address concerns in a Christian manner.
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. Psalm 37:37
Be thankful for what you have.
Finding gratitude in the midst of a storm is hard, but it reminds us that there’s always something to be grateful for. It is easy to get stuck in the mundane routine of life. You may feel like you’re not moving anywhere in your career, maybe you were hoping to have purchased a house by now, or you feel stuck in your current situation. This is the best time to evaluate your life and see how much God has blessed you. Hate your job? What about the millions of people that wish they had a job? Want to buy a house? Remember how blessed you are to have a roof over your head. Feeling stuck? Reflect on how far you’ve come in the last five or ten years. There’s always something to be thankful for. Remember that each day we have a reason to praise God for waking us up.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Do something different, become a new person.
Change requires us to do something different. Renewing our faith requires us to be bold and uncomfortable. It requires us to see ourselves in a new way, to remind ourselves that we are created in God’s image. By walking in faith we can renew our faith. This may require moving to a new place, finding new friends, or changing our habits. We can not live in fear, for God has so much more in store for us. Trying new things requires faith, it requires believing that God is always with us and that he will make a way.
Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19
Create a plan.
Planning is an important part of growth. It is the reason we get an education, read the Bible and pray. By having a plan for ourselves we can ask God for guidance. We can be productive members of society by using our talents. But, if we lack planning we may never fully realize our talents or gifts; let alone reach our destiny. Planning helps us reflect on the past while taking steps to fulfill our desires in the future. Creating a plan might mean reviewing your tasks on a regular basis, writing a goal or set of goals every year, and reviewing it regularly to see where you are. It also requires us to be honest with ourselves, to find accountability partners and to be willing accept constructive criticism.
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. Proverbs 21:5
Remember to first seek God’s guidance.
The most important way to renew your faith is to seek God. He will guide you, protect you, and renew you. This requires building a personal relationship with him. It requires finding time to seek him in every situation and moment. Knowing that he always has you in mind reminds us that we are not alone. Seeking God reminds us that our battles are not ours to fight, that he will fight them for us, and he always wins.
Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! 1 Chronicles 16:11
We Want to Know:
Have you ever felt like you lacked faith?
How was your faith renewed?
