Life is hard! Sometimes really, really hard! Life is full of adversity and we all know this. Now the question is, how do we get through it and come out stronger on the other side?
We all know that facing adversity and challenges is an inevitable part of life’s journey. Every single one of us knows this, but dealing with these trials can sometimes be enough to send us over the edge. I know I have felt like this at different times throughout my life and I seriously doubt if I’m alone.
It’s during these times of adversity though, that it is essential to remember that opposition is necessary for our growth and development. We can not learn and grow without it. Each trial offers us the opportunity to learn valuable lessons and gain strength from the experiences we endure. But, by learning how to use some tools and resources we’ve been given AND understanding that challenges are temporary obstacles on the path to personal growth, we can navigate through tough times with resilience and grace.
Check out these two really good books about overcoming adversity in life!
Overcoming Adversity: Conquering Life’s Challenges by Eileen Lenson
Facing Adversity: Stories of Courage and Inspiration by Dr. Jeffrey L. Gurian
1-Understand Opposition is Necessary
This is a must when facing adversity! When we understand the why it makes it easier to deal with the how, and the why is, it’s necessary for our growth. Trials and challenges serve as the necessary opposition that pushes us to learn, grow, and appreciate the good times. Without experiencing hardships, we wouldn’t truly value the moments of joy and success. It is through adversity that we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. These tough times are not meant to break us, but to strengthen us and help us develop empathy for others who may be going through similar struggles.
How Do We Know
25 And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them;
11 For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my firstborn in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must needs be a compound in one; wherefore, if it should be one body it must needs remain as dead, having no life neither death, nor corruption nor incorruption, happiness nor misery, neither sense nor insensibility.
16 And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:
17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.”
The Lord gives Adam and Eve a commandment with consequences if they partake of the fruit of the tree of good and evil. Right here is one of the first examples of opposition. They can choose the good or the bad.
2-Pray
Prayer is a very powerful tool to use when struggling with adversity! Knowing that we can communicate with Heavenly Father, and that he hears and answers our prayers can provide us with immense comfort and guidance during the tough times. By reaching out in prayer, we can find a sense of connection and peace, knowing that we are not facing these struggles alone.
Prayer not only offers us a means of expressing our worries and fears but also serves as a way to relinquish control and trust to a higher plan. By surrendering our burdens to God, we can feel a sense of relief and assurance knowing that we are not carrying the weight of our troubles by ourselves. This act of faith instills a sense of hope and resilience, knowing that there is an all-knowing and all-powerful God that is ever-present and willing to help. Embracing the power of prayer can provide a renewed perspective and the strength needed to persevere through adversity, knowing that we are supported by a force greater than ourselves.
For more about how prayer can help, check out 5 Tips to Strengthen Your Faith.
How Do We Know
11 Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually.
12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
9 But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint; that ye must not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul.
Check out these two really good books about overcoming adversity in life!
Overcoming Adversity: Conquering Life’s Challenges by Eileen Lenson
Facing Adversity: Stories of Courage and Inspiration by Dr. Jeffrey L. Gurian
3-Read the Scriptures
In times of adversity, finding solace and strength can be a challenging task. Personally, I have discovered a source of comfort and peace through reading the scriptures. They have not only provided me with answers to my prayers but also offered guidance during uncertain times. I truly believe that the wisdom and insights found in the scriptures are available to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. These sacred texts serve as a conduit for God to communicate with us, offering comfort, strength, and direction when we need it most. When faced with adversity, turning to the scriptures can be a powerful way to find the support and reassurance we seek.
I talk more about how reading the word of God can help in 5 Tips to Strengthen Your Faith.
How Do We Know
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
3 Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.
Richard G. Scott, “The Power of Scripture,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 6–8
4-Keep Your Covenants
During times of adversity, it is crucial to stand strong and unwavering in our commitments, especially those we made with God. When we enter into covenants with the Lord, whether through baptism or in the temple, we pledge to uphold His commandments, and in exchange, He promises us blessings beyond measure. It is through our faithfulness and dedication that we invite the Lord’s strength and guidance into our lives.
Just as we expect the Lord to fulfill His promises, we must also do our part by remaining steadfast in our resolve to keep our covenants. In doing so, we not only demonstrate our trust in God but also open ourselves up to receive His abundant blessings and support during challenging times.
How Do We Know
Our living prophet today has made us this promise!
5-Go to Church
One powerful source of support in times of struggle is the church. By attending church, individuals can draw upon the collective strength and wisdom of a community that has faced trials and tribulations. Surrounding oneself with others who understand the struggles and can offer empathy and encouragement can provide a sense of belonging and solidarity. Moreover, the teachings and faith shared in a church setting can offer solace and perspective, reminding individuals of the higher purpose and guiding principles that can help navigate difficult times with grace and resilience.
How Do We Know
8 …and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life
6-Go to the Temple
The temple, known as the Lord’s house on earth, serves as a sacred sanctuary where we can connect deeply with our spirituality and find peace amidst turmoil. Every time I walk through the doors of the temple I feel as though I am leaving the craziness of the world behind and entering a place of peace, comfort and guidance. Through the spirit that is present in the temple I feel closer to my Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ and know that they are aware of me and with me as I deal with whatever may be happening in my life.
The act of keeping our covenants within the temple provides us with a source of inner strength and resilience that can sustain us through life’s trials. Ultimately, the temple offers a sacred space where we can find courage, hope, and renewal in the face of adversity.
How Do We Know
President Linda K. Burton offered this counsel: “We can receive inspiration and revelation in the temple and also power to cope with the adversities of life.” – Linda K. Burton, (Prepared in a Manner That Never Had Been Known.)
7-Learn from Experience
By reflecting on past experiences and the lessons they have taught us, we can better equip ourselves to face adversity with courage and determination. Each obstacle we overcome becomes a stepping stone towards personal growth and development. Embracing the lessons learned from our struggles empowers us to stand strong in the face of future challenges, knowing that we have the wisdom and experience to navigate through them with grace.
How Do We Know
Elder L. Tom Perry said, “The lessons of the past … prepare us to face the challenges of the future.”- The Past Way of Facing the Future, October 2009 General Conference
Larry Richman said, “God lets us have difficult days, months, or lives so we can grow from these experiences. I believe that the specific challenges I have faced in my life were the specific ways I had to learn the lessons I needed to learn. I believe I am the man I am today because of the trials I’ve experienced, not in spite of them.” – Learning through Life’s Trials
8-Focus on Gratitude
One powerful tool that can help us navigate through tough times is gratitude. This really works! When I’m feeling down or overwhelmed, if I stop and start thinking of all my blessings, I start to see all the ways Heavenly Father has blessed me and I start to feel hope and happiness.
When we focus on the things we are grateful for, no matter how small they may seem, we shift our perspective from what’s going wrong to what’s going right in our lives. Practicing gratitude can help us find strength and comfort in the midst of chaos. By acknowledging the blessings we have, we can cultivate a sense of hope and resilience that enables us to stand strong in the face of adversity. So, the next time you find yourself struggling, take a moment to reflect on the things you are thankful for, and let gratitude guide you through the storm.
How Do We Know
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
37 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Grateful in Any Circumstances“, General Conference April 2014
9-Remember You Are Stronger Than You Think
It is essential to remind ourselves that we possess a strength within us that is often underestimated. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by challenges and obstacles, but it is crucial to remember that we are stronger than we think. Each of us carries a resilience that can help us navigate through tough times with grace and courage. By tapping into our inner strength and believing in our abilities, we can face adversity head-on and emerge even stronger on the other side. Remember, you are a child of God, imbued with inherent strength and unwavering faith that can guide you through any storm. Stand tall, stand strong, and trust in the power within you to overcome whatever comes your way.
How Do We Know
CAROLYN BILLINGS, “Are You All the Way In?” You are stronger than you think. Heavenly Father knows and loves each of you. If you will make sure that you are all the way in by trusting in the Lord, taking His yoke upon you, and following Him, then He will make you a conqueror.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “You are stronger than you realize. You are more capable than you can imagine. You can do it now!” –You Can Do It Now!, General Conference, October 2013
Check out these two really good books about overcoming adversity in life!
Overcoming Adversity: Conquering Life’s Challenges by Eileen Lenson
Facing Adversity: Stories of Courage and Inspiration by Dr. Jeffrey L. Gurian
Overcoming adversity is a journey that requires strength, faith, and perseverance. By remembering that challenges are a necessary part of our growth, turning to prayer, seeking guidance from scriptures, finding solace in places of worship, and staying true to your commitments, you can navigate through tough times with resilience. Keep a grateful heart, embrace the lessons adversity brings, and always remember that you are more powerful than you realize. With these tips in mind, you can conquer any obstacle that comes your way and emerge stronger and wiser on the other side. Stay steadfast in your beliefs and continue to trust in your ability to rise above adversity.
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