Strength in the Storm: Learning to Encourage Yourself in the Lord

A person with his arm's out in front of a big wave crashing against the rocks.

"But David found strength in the Lord his God." – 1 Samuel 30:6 (NIV)


David faced a moment of unimaginable despair when he returned to Ziklag to find that his enemies had raided the city, taking all the women, children, and their belongings. His loyal men, overcome with grief and anger, turned on him, speaking of stoning him. David was alone, stripped of allies, comfort, and support. In this moment of complete hopelessness, he made a choice that would define his faith—he encouraged himself in the Lord.

David didn’t wait for someone to lift him up. He sought God’s strength and reminded himself of God’s faithfulness. Instead of despairing, he turned his heart toward the One who had always been his rock. David prayed, sought guidance, and God answered, promising victory and restoration. With renewed strength, David led his men to reclaim everything the enemy had stolen.

This story reminds us that when we face opposition and feel alone, we, too, can turn to God and find the strength to stand firm. When circumstances seem bleak, and it feels as though everyone is against us, we have the power, like David, to encourage ourselves in the Lord. Our words, attitude, and faith can shift our perspective and invite God’s hand to move on our behalf.


Be encouraged that we all experience moments when it feels as if the world is against us—when relationships crumble, finances dwindle, or dreams seem out of reach. In these moments, we can draw on David’s example and build our faith by speaking God’s promises over ourselves. We can remind ourselves that "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?" (Psalm 27:1 KJV). Faith like David’s calls for us to believe that God will help us recover what has been lost or stolen, even when we don’t yet see the way forward.

When we stand firm, God hears us. Our attitude, words, and unwavering faith in Him invite His presence into our situations. Like David, we can trust that when we seek God’s strength, He will deliver us and restore what has been taken.

When we face a tough day, take a moment to encourage yourself in God’s promises. Speak words of faith over our life, and remind ourselves of His faithfulness. Let David’s example inspire us to believe in God’s ability to restore and bring victory, no matter how impossible the situation may seem.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, when I feel alone or discouraged, help me to remember that You are with me. Strengthen my heart to trust in Your promises and give me the faith to encourage myself in You. I believe You will restore what the enemy has stolen. Help me to stand strong, knowing You are my victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Declaration:
I am strong in the Lord, and my faith moves mountains. I trust in God’s promise of restoration and believe that He will recover all that has been taken. My attitude and words are filled with faith, inviting His power into my life. I am victorious through Christ.


When you face a tough day, take a moment to encourage yourself in God’s promises. Speak words of faith over your life, and remind yourself of His faithfulness. Let David’s example inspire you to believe in God’s ability to restore and bring victory, no matter how impossible the situation may seem.

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America is Bleeding Red - Our New Found Covenant

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Embracing Grace: Lessons from the Elder Brother in the Prodigal Son Story