Whether it is bad news at work, school, home, or in the world, it can be so hard to keep the faith and believe in anything good. Even when it seems that everything is going your way, it is inevitable that you will have to deal with a storm. How well you weather that storm is no doubt linked to your faith. Do you believe that things will get better? Do you believe that you will overcome?

For me, sometimes I have answered with a “Yes.” Other times, I have answered with a “No.” I am no stranger to telling God that I am not going to be able to make it out of a particular situation. But, somehow I did. It wasn’t easy but I did it. Through many difficult seasons, I have learned that there are some key ways to tap into and strengthen your faith.

Plug into the positive.

Disconnect yourself from negativity and focus on the beauty of life. Often times, this can be found in the smallest things like a bouquet of flowers or the sunshine. Hanging with friends and loved ones is always helpful, but only if they breathe life into you. Also, this is a good time to listen to a worship song or read a devotional. One of my favorites is “Oceans” by Hillsong United.

Reflect and rest.

Take some time and think about a situation when something worked out on your behalf in the past. When I feel uncertain, I often remind myself about previous trials that I have overcome. Once you make that list either in your head or on paper, rest in the fact that this current test will pass like others before.

Surround yourself with visual reminders.

In my apartment, I kept a Post-It note with a motivational note by the front door so I could see it every time that I left or entered my house. I’m not saying that you have to go full on Mary Jane Paul but visual reminders can be so helpful. If Post-Its aren’t your thing, look for coffee cups, art prints, journals, etc. Just put something in your daily path that reminds you of the importance of faith.

Be the good.

When life is trying your last nerve, it can be so easy to see the world in a negative light. To combat that, find a way to be the good. Whether that is volunteering your services or sharing encouraging words with a friend, being selfless has the ability to boost your mood and recharge your spirit in ways that you may not have imagined. [Suggestion: Read “29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life” by Cami Walker to see this principle in action.]

Let it go.

Faith must be exercised on a regular basis and part of that is knowing when to pray about a situation and let it go. If you believe that something is going to work out for your good, then do what you can do and then turn it over to God.

Remember all we need is faith the size of a mustard seed to overcome the impossible. What tips do you have for someone who is working through a difficult season? We’re all in this together so I would love to know your keys to success. Please share below!