How do people overcome hardships? Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, it throws us into situations that feel impossible to handle. When we’re in the middle of a hardship, the way forward can feel blurry, even hopeless. But how do people overcome hardships when the going gets tough? Some find strength within, while others lean on their community, and many turn to Jesus, for the hope he offers to all who will believe in his name. Here, we’ll explore ways that can help anyone get through challenging times.
If you want to know more about Jesus and how much He loves you, we invite you to watch the Great News video on this page.
How Do People Overcome Hardships?
1. Acknowledge the Pain, but Don’t Let It Define You
Overcoming hardships starts with recognizing the difficulty of what you’re going through. This doesn’t mean you have to be okay with it or “move on” right away. It’s essential to take time to feel whatever emotions come up, whether it’s grief, anger, or frustration. Jesus himself faced and acknowledged suffering; in the Garden of Gethsemane, he prayed and expressed his deep sorrow. Allowing yourself to be honest about the pain is the first step in healing.
2. Turn to Your Faith for Strength and Perspective
For many, overcoming hardships becomes a journey in faith. Jesus promised to be with us always, even through life’s darkest valleys. When you feel like giving up, consider the promise that you’re never alone in your struggles. Reflect on scripture that speaks to your situation, such as, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). These words remind us that Jesus wants to carry the weight of our hardships with us. How do people overcome hardships? By leaning on a power greater than themselves.
3. Connect with a Supportive Community
Sometimes, getting through a hardship feels more manageable when you’re surrounded by others who understand and care. Having family, friends, or a church community you can turn to is invaluable. Talking to others who have gone through similar struggles can provide new insights or simply the comfort of knowing you’re not alone. One of the ways Jesus ministered was through a close community, sharing burdens and joys alike. How do people overcome hardships? Often, it’s through the encouragement and strength they draw from others.
4. Stay Grounded in the Present Moment
When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to get lost in a swirl of “what-ifs” and fears about the future. Taking things one day, or even one moment, at a time can make the weight of hardship feel a little lighter. Mindfulness techniques—like deep breathing or simply taking time to notice the world around you—can help. Jesus often encouraged his followers to trust God with the future, focusing instead on the faithfulness of the present day. How do people overcome hardships? By learning to live one day at a time.
5. Look for Small Victories
Sometimes, progress is slow, and the road feels long. In these times, it can be incredibly helpful to focus on the small victories. Maybe it’s getting out of bed, making a small but positive choice, or finding the energy to go for a walk. Celebrating these small moments can remind you that growth and healing are happening, even if it feels hard to see. These small steps add up and can be powerful motivators to keep going.
6. Pray for Guidance and Strength
Prayer can be one of the most powerful tools in overcoming hardships. It allows you to express what’s in your heart, ask for guidance, and lean on the faith that Jesus understands your struggles personally. When you pray, don’t feel you need to have the “right words” or sound perfect; simply be honest. Pour out what’s in your heart. Many find that their prayers bring a sense of calm and hope, even when the situation hasn’t changed.
7. Remember That Hardships Are Part of a Larger Story
When you’re in a tough place, it’s easy to feel as though your struggles define you. But hardships are only a chapter in your story, not the whole book. Every hardship you face has the potential to build resilience, deepen your faith, and grow compassion for others. Jesus used hardships in the lives of those he encountered to bring healing, transformation, and redemption. How do people overcome hardships? By understanding that even the hardest moments can shape them for the better.
8. Trust That There’s a Purpose, Even If You Can’t See It Yet
Sometimes, overcoming hardships means embracing a belief in a higher purpose—even when you can’t see it. Trust that God is working in your life and that there’s meaning in what you’re going through. Many people find peace in knowing that their struggles are not random but part of a larger, divine plan. Jesus promised that every hardship has the potential to bring about something good, even if it’s hard to understand now. How do people overcome hardships? By believing that something greater is at work, transforming the pain into growth.
Finding Hope in Faith
No one has to face hardship alone. Jesus offers hope, comfort, and a promise that he’ll walk with us every step of the way. If you’re struggling, remember that overcoming hardship doesn’t mean having it all figured out or feeling okay all the time. It’s about continuing to walk forward, trusting that God has your back.
If you want to know more about Jesus and how much He loves you, we invite you to watch the Great News video on this page.
How do people overcome hardships? They take one step at a time, lean on their faith, and remember that hope is always available, even in the darkest times.
