HOW TO OVERCOME ADVERSITY
Overcoming adversity is one of the hardest things to do in life.
Whether that adversity is, death of a loved one, depression, suppression of sexual abuse, or even the loss of direction in life, one knows that it can take forever to overcome this challenge.
The most common mistakes made when facing adversity, is going the road alone and giving up when the going gets too tough.
I know everyone has that streak of independence that says,“I can do this all by myself. I’ve got this.” Which, don’t get me wrong, is great and all, but it most likely will not work in the long run.
Having someone to confide in while you face this challenge is key because no matter how much you would like to believe that you can carry this burden all by your lonesome, you cannot. Not only should you have a person to lean on, but you should also reach out to the Lord to lean on.
Sometimes when it feels inconvenient to call upon that friend of yours, or when you feel as if you have burdened them too much, call upon the Lord instead. He rejoices when you choose to hand all of your worries and burdens over to him, instead of trying to bear the weight by yourself. He will gladly accept your depression, your loneliness, your desperation, and hold you in the comfort of his arms. God created us to be independent beings with free will because he wanted to give us the opportunity to choose him when we face adversity, and when we do not.
You know that feeling of hopelessness? The one that comes out of nowhere and makes you want to crumple into a little ball? That feeling that makes you want to give up on it all? The one that makes you want to stop fighting? That is the enemy trying to knock you down, when you are so close to recovery.
Every day that you come closer to defeating that adversity that has been beating you down, the enemy is working against you to try to keep you in that feeling of hopelessness. When you are at the climax of your battle, that rain before the shine, that is when he chooses to strike. You cannot let that one moment of defeat define your path to overcoming your pain. You must remain strong in your faith and maintain your confidence. Pray to God, and ask that he will keep you strong. Journal your feelings and read your bible; asking God to guide you to what you need to read.
“The fog may seem thick but the sun will surely pierce through and brighten up the sky. Allow yourself to continue to rest on the wings of God’s love and watch yourself learn to soar high.”~ Kemi Sogunle
Overcoming adversity, whether it seems to be small or large, can be a daunting task, but it can be done. Keep a friend by your side that you can depend on to help you through your trials. No matter what, do not give up. No matter how long the journey seems, do not give up. I promise that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. If you maintain your faith in God and pray to Him seeking his help and unending love, I assure that you will be able to overcome the tribulations along your way.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sixteen year old Ansliee Stehling is currently a Junior in high school. She is a member of the National Honor Society, secretary of Student Council, and historian of her Junior class. She is a golfer on the varsity golf team and is ranked 1 of the Top 10 students in her high school. On the weekends she sings and plays the piano for Parkway’s Praise and Worship team.
Bible plans for:
Depression
Loss
Anxiety