I’ve faced moments in life when everything felt like it was crumbling—when the weight of pain, uncertainty, and fear became almost unbearable. During these times, I searched for something greater than myself, something unshakable, something that could hold me when I couldn’t hold myself together. That’s when I learned what it truly meant to lean into God. Not just as a belief or an idea, but as a living, present help in my struggles.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, or overwhelmed, here are ten ways that helped me draw near to God when I needed Him the most.
1. Cry Out to God in Prayer
In my lowest moments, I realised that God didn’t expect me to come to Him with perfect, well-structured prayers. He wanted my raw, unfiltered heart.
David, in the Psalms, cried out in anguish, frustration, and even doubt—yet God met him there. I found that the more honest my prayers became, the more peace I felt. Don’t hold back. Tell God exactly how you feel. He can handle your pain.
2. Immerse Yourself in Scripture
God’s Word became my refuge when nothing else made sense. There were nights when I held my Bible close, reading promises that reminded me I wasn’t alone:
- “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
- “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” (Isaiah 43:2)
Even when I couldn’t feel His presence, Scripture reminded me He was there. His Word is living, and it speaks directly to the soul.
3. Worship Through the Storm
I discovered that worship wasn’t just for joyful moments—it was also a weapon in my pain.
On days when I felt hopeless, I put on worship music and let the lyrics sink in. Songs like “Way Maker” and “It Is Well” reminded me that God was working even when I couldn’t see it. Worship shifts our focus from our problems to His power.
4. Surround Yourself with Godly Encouragement
During my hardest seasons, I withdrew from people, thinking isolation was best. But God often speaks through His people.
I found strength in conversations with mentors, friends, and church members who lifted me up in prayer and reminded me of God’s faithfulness. If you’re struggling, reach out to those who will speak life over you.
5. Meditate on God’s Faithfulness
One night, when doubt consumed me, I started writing down every time God had come through for me in the past. The more I wrote, the more I realised—He had never failed me.
Remembering past victories strengthens our faith for present battles. If God was faithful before, He will be faithful again.
6. Find Rest in His Presence
I used to think I had to “fix” my situation before coming to God, but He calls us to rest in Him, even in chaos.
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
I learned to sit quietly before Him, without words, simply resting in His presence. Sometimes, peace doesn’t come from answers—it comes from knowing He is near.
7. Trust in God’s Timing
One of my greatest struggles was impatience. I wanted solutions immediately, but God’s timeline didn’t match mine.
Over time, I realised that delays are not denials. God was working behind the scenes, even when I couldn’t see it. If you’re waiting for a breakthrough, hold on—His timing is perfect.
8. Serve Others, Even in Your Pain
One of the most surprising ways I found healing was by helping others.
Even when I felt empty, I reached out to those who were also struggling. Whether through prayer, encouragement, or acts of kindness, I saw that serving shifted my focus from my pain to His purpose.
9. Declare God’s Promises Over Your Life
When negative thoughts overwhelmed me, I started declaring God’s promises out loud.
- Instead of “I’ll never get through this,” I declared, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
- Instead of “I am alone,” I declared, “God will never leave me nor forsake me.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
Speaking His Word over my life changed my perspective and renewed my strength.
10. Surrender Everything to Him
The most powerful breakthrough came when I finally let go.
I had spent so much energy trying to fix, control, and figure out my situation. But one day, I simply said, “Lord, I can’t do this on my own. I surrender.”
It wasn’t a magic solution, but it was a turning point. God moves most powerfully when we let go and trust Him completely.
Final Thoughts: God Is Closer Than You Think
Looking back, I realise that my lowest moments weren’t the end—they were where I encountered God the deepest. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know this: God has not forgotten you.
Lean into Him. Cry out. Trust His process. Even in the darkness, He is working for your good. You are never alone.
