Ignite Your Passion for Life: Find Strength in Weakness

Life has its own rhythm and dynamics, and over time, it will bring us either to dreams fulfilled, or to a reality that is the opposite. When faced with many challenges, trials, and struggles, whether because of problems, illness, or physical limitations, maintaining a passion for life is not easy. Yet it is not impossible for us to stay encouraged in difficult times.

What must we do so that our passion for life keeps burning?

Spirit: The Source of Life's Strength

spirit

“A person's spirit can endure sickness, but who can restore a broken spirit?” – Proverbs 18:14

Life does not always go smoothly according to what we dream. Everything that happens in life is often beyond our control. Yet, we can still control our response to what happens.

Proverbs says a person with spirit can endure suffering. So, spirit is one of the keys to living a life that is not easy.

The Spirit Gives Life

“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is of no use at all.” – John 6:63a

On May 27, 1998, Tom Whittaker made history as the first person with a disability in the world to conquer Mount Everest. Tom, who lost both legs in an accident in 1979, proved that what is inside is stronger than what is visible, namely physical imperfection.

The spirit within us is more powerful than our body. You may be trapped in a body that does not function as it should. Yet, the spirit dwelling within you remains alive and strong. The strength of the spirit cannot be limited by your physical condition.

So, do not lose heart too quickly, feel useless, or think you can do nothing when physical limitations or illness are your obstacle right now. Remember, it is the spirit that gives life, even when the body is not functioning well.

On the other hand, even if your body is healthy and strong, but what is inside, namely your spirit, is extinguished, you are entering death while still alive.

How can we keep our spirit burning?

1. Stop Feeling Sorry for Yourself

A joyful heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache breaks the spirit. – Proverbs 15:13

Feeling sorry for yourself (self-pity) is different from showing compassion to yourself (self-compassion).

Self-compassion means we accept and honor our condition as it is, while still taking responsibility to improve the situation. If you are sick, but intentionally do not rest, then finally collapse and have to be rushed to the hospital, that means you are showing too little compassion to yourself.

On the other hand, self-pity means the tendency to keep asking to bepitied, supported, or served by others. When you pity yourself, automatically it will be hard for you to be joyful. You consider your life so miserable, and you are the most unfortunate person in the world.

What you need to do is stop feeling self-pity. This feeling will not get you anywhere. Start counting God's blessings. So much of His goodness has been poured out in your life. Keep giving thanks, and have a heart that always wants to learn and become better. In that way, you will be able to have a joyful heart in every situation.

Rejoice always. Joy is a magical formula, not only because of the word of God alone, but because it is medically proven. Joy can speed up the healing process and give us a greater possibility of winning the struggle against illness.

2. Ask for Strength from God

He gives strength to the weary and increases the spirit of those who have no power. – Isaiah 40:29  

Are you feeling powerless in facing life's difficulties? Whatever you do does not change the situation or lighten your burden? There is no way out anymore because every door has been closed?

Do not give up before you come to God! Ask Him for strength, because Godis the giver of your strength and the one who renews your spirit.

It may seem illogical and too simple, but that is faith: the evidence of things we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). Pour out the anxiety of your heart to God. You will experience for yourself how God's strength enables you to face your struggles every day.

3. Remember: A Reward Awaits Your Effort

“But as for you, be strong and do not lose heart, for there is a reward for your work!” – 2 Chronicles 15:7

None of your efforts will be in vain. Stay encouraged as you face life's struggles and challenges, because God promises a reward for those who are willing to make an effort. When you live with spirit, your mind will be more optimistic and driven to find solutions. And, it is not impossible that someday all of it will bear fruit.

The spirit of life enables us to find strength even in weakness, hardship, and distress. When you are weak, the spirit of life will give you strength, especially the spirit that you ask from God.

“Therefore I delight and rejoice in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions and distresses for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:10

Good luck and stay encouraged!

*The church GKDI is currently present in 35 cities. We have Bible Study activities in every area, so if you need information or would like to get involved, contact us at contact Church GKDI Official: WhatsApp 0821 2285 8686 or Facebook / Instagram GKDI Official

Related articles:  Jesus Is Risen: What Does It Mean for Our Resurrection?

Inspirational video: