A Prayer for Holding on to God in Hard Times
By Kristine Brown
“Rather, cling tightly to the Lord your God as you have done until now.” - (Joshua 23:8 NLT)
Will these hard times we’re going through ever end?
If you’ve asked yourself this question lately, you’re not alone. For many of us, life hasn’t been easy in recent weeks, months, or even years. We know God’s Word makes it clear that “in this world we will have trouble” (John 16:33). But when difficult circumstances happen one after another, we can get overwhelmed by the extended season of hard times. So what do we do when hard times hit one after the other with no end in sight?
In his final words to the leaders of Israel, Joshua gave this command to God’s chosen people. His words still speak truth to us as believers today.
“Rather, cling tightly to the Lord your God as you have done until now.” (Joshua 23:8 NLT)
The Israelites were enjoying a time of rest in the land God had given them. Joshua’s life on earth was nearing its end, so he encouraged God’s people to cling to Him in hard times.
Joshua warned the people not to be distracted by other gods. He knew the temptation they would face, whether in this season of rest or in the heat of battle. They needed to be aware of the dangers of turning away, while also reassured of God’s desire to fight for them. “Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the Lord your God fights for you, just as he has promised. So be very careful to love the Lord your God.” (Joshua 23:10-11)
When we’re in the midst of hard times and doubt how things could possibly work out, today’s verse offers the answer we need. We can hold on to God just as we’ve done in the past, and trust that He will be with us through it all. He is faithful. Let’s cling tightly to God right now with this prayer.
Dear Heavenly Father,
It seems like everyone around me is experiencing hard times. We see discouraging news in our world and feel the effects in our homes, families, and personal lives. We know we can hold on to You when circumstances overwhelm us, but we still struggle to find peace.
Lord, help us feel Your presence right now. We know You are faithful and ask You for comfort through hard times. The kind of comfort only Your Holy Spirit can give. Let Your words through Joshua seal permanently on our hearts today. We know there is hope and healing when we choose to cling tightly to You.
Forgive us for being distracted by the things of this world. We can get pulled away from Your loving arms without even realizing it. When we’re in danger of turning away, help us turn to Your Word instead. It will be our constant and steadfast lamp to guide our path through hard times. We cling to You, Lord, today and every day.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
For more resources for help in hard times, check out this free email study from Kristine, Walking with Hagar: A 5-Day Challenge for Following God’s Plan. You’ll find weekly encouragement to help you “become more than yourself through God’s Word” at her website, kristinebrown.net. Kristine is the author of the book, Over It. Conquering Comparison to Live Out God’s Plan, and the companion devotional for teen girls.
Related Resource: "I AM" - A Lenten Journey with Jesus
When the world feels heavy, clarity isn’t always what we need most. Sometimes what we need is presence. In John 8:12, Jesus doesn’t promise all the answers. He promises Himself: “I am the light of the world.” Light doesn’t show us the entire path—it gives us enough to take the next step. It reminds us that we are not alone in the dark, and that God is present with us even when things feel uncertain. I’m praying this meditation reminds you that Jesus is present—and you don’t have to walk in the dark alone. This week’s guided Scripture meditation is part of my larger Lent series that invites you to slow down, listen, and follow the Light who leads to life.
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Originally published Tuesday, 04 January 2022.
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