Struggles Strengthen Us
Theme: God uses what wears us down to build us up.
Scripture:
Romans 5:3–5 – “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 4:16–17 – “Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day. For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory.”
Devotional Thought:
No one likes the struggle.
No one wakes up saying, “Lord, give me another challenge today.”
But if we’re honest, the struggle is where we see the most growth.
Every hill climbed strengthens your legs.
Every storm weathered strengthens your faith.
Every moment you wanted to give up but didn’t strengthens your endurance.
The struggle bus isn’t a place of punishment — it’s a place of perseverance.
And while it’s bumpy, crowded, and often uncomfortable, it’s where faith is formed.
God doesn’t waste pain.
He doesn’t overlook hardship.
Every tear, every setback, every sleepless night becomes raw material in His hands to refine your character and reveal His strength.
You may not see it now, but today’s struggle is shaping tomorrow’s strength.
Even the smallest acts of perseverance — showing up to church, praying when you don’t feel like it, encouraging someone when you’re drained — all of these are victories in the kingdom.
And here’s the best part: you’re not struggling alone.
When one person on the bus hurts, the whole body feels it (1 Corinthians 12:26).
When one person overcomes, we all celebrate together.
The Church isn’t built on people who never struggle — it’s built on people who struggle together and find hope in the same Savior.
So whatever weight you’re carrying this week, remember:
God’s not asking you to be perfect — He’s asking you to be steadfast.
Stay on the bus. Keep pressing forward. And let the struggle make you stronger.
Reflection Questions:
- What struggle in your life is currently testing your endurance?
- How have you seen God strengthen or refine you through past struggles?
- Who can you encourage this week who might be losing hope in their own struggle?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You that my struggles are not wasted.
Even when I don’t understand the purpose, I trust Your process.
Give me endurance to keep moving forward and compassion to walk beside others who are weary.
Help me to remember that every hardship I face draws me closer to You and shapes me more into Your image.
Strengthen my spirit through Your love, and help me see the beauty You’re building through my struggle.
Amen.
Daily Practice:
Think of someone who’s been going through a hard time — a friend, coworker, or church member.
Take 10 minutes today to text, call, or write them a note of encouragement.
Remind them that they’re not alone and that God is still working through their struggle.
When we help others carry their burdens, our own hearts get lighter.