Strength is something that everyone desires at some point in life.
Some people think of strength as having physical power, while others see it as emotional resilience.
In times of struggle, people want the ability to endure.
But what does the Bible say about being strong?
Does God expect His followers to be strong on their own, or does He offer them a different kind of strength?
The Bible speaks about strength in many ways, showing that true power comes not from human ability, but from trusting in God.
Understanding what Scripture says about strength can give encouragement, especially in difficult times.
True Strength Comes From God
The world often teaches that strength comes from self-reliance.
People are told to be independent, push through struggles alone, and rely on their own willpower.
But the Bible paints a different picture of strength.
Isaiah 40:29 says, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
This verse reminds believers that true strength is not about personal effort—it is a gift from God.
When people try to handle life’s challenges on their own, they often feel exhausted and overwhelmed.
But when they turn to God, they find a strength that does not fade.
Psalm 46:1 describes God as “our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
This means that believers do not have to face their struggles alone.
God’s strength is always available, no matter the situation.
Strength in Times of Weakness
One of the most surprising truths in the Bible is that strength is often found in weakness.
The Apostle Paul understood this deeply.
In 2 Corinthians 12:9, he shares God’s words to him: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Paul then says, “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
This seems like the opposite of what most people expect.
The world says that strength means never showing weakness.
But God says that when people recognize their own limitations, He can fill them with His power.
This means that even in moments of struggle, God is working.
Rather than being ashamed of weakness, believers can see it as an opportunity for God to display His strength.
Courage and Strength Go Hand in Hand
Strength is not just about endurance—it is also about courage.
Joshua 1:9 is one of the most well-known verses about strength: “Have I not commanded you?
Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
God gave this command to Joshua as he was preparing to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.
It was a huge responsibility, and fear could have easily overtaken him.
But God reminded Joshua that true strength comes from His presence.
When believers face challenges, they do not need to rely on their own bravery.
They can trust that God is with them, giving them the courage to move forward.
Strength in Times of Trouble
Life is filled with difficulties, and there are moments when people feel like they have nothing left to give.
But the Bible reassures believers that God is a source of strength in times of trouble.
Psalm 34:17-18 says, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
God does not ignore the struggles of His people.
He hears their prayers and provides the strength to keep going.
Even when things seem hopeless, God’s power is enough.
Nahum 1:7 states, “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble.
He cares for those who trust in him.”
Strength is not about pretending that pain does not exist.
It is about leaning on God and trusting that He will carry His people through.
Strength to Overcome Temptation
Being strong is not just about facing challenges—it is also about resisting temptation.
The Bible warns that people will face trials and tests that can lead them away from God.
But He provides the strength to resist.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.
And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
This verse is a reminder that believers do not have to fight sin alone.
God gives them the strength to stand firm.
When facing temptation, prayer and reliance on Scripture provide the power needed to overcome.
Ephesians 6:10 encourages believers to “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.”
True strength comes from staying close to God and following His ways.
Strength to Help Others
Strength is not just for personal survival—it is also meant to be used to help others.
Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
God calls believers to use their strength to support those who are struggling.
Romans 15:1 echoes this idea: “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.”
Being strong in the Lord is not just about personal growth—it is about lifting others up.
Encouraging those who are weak, comforting those who are hurting, and standing up for what is right are all ways to show God’s strength.
When people rely on God’s power, they can be a source of hope and help to those around them.
Strength to Keep the Faith
Following God is not always easy.
There are moments when faith is tested, doubts arise, and discouragement creeps in.
But the Bible encourages believers to stay strong in their faith.
Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”
Even when the journey is difficult, God remains faithful.
Isaiah 41:10 provides reassurance: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Believers do not have to hold onto faith by their own strength.
God provides the power to persevere.
Even when faith feels weak, God’s strength is constant.
Strength to Wait on God
Sometimes, the hardest thing to do is wait.
People want solutions, answers, and changes right away.
But God often calls His people to wait on Him.
Isaiah 40:31 is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from trusting God’s timing:
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Waiting on God does not mean doing nothing.
It means trusting Him, seeking Him in prayer, and believing that He will act in His perfect timing.
Patience requires strength, but God promises to renew those who put their hope in Him.
Final Thoughts
The Bible teaches that true strength does not come from human effort, but from God.
He is the source of power in times of trouble, the provider of courage in times of fear, and the giver of endurance in times of weakness.
Jesus Himself showed that strength is not about avoiding hardship, but about trusting God through it.
Believers are called to rely on God’s strength, not just for themselves, but to encourage and support others.
Faith, patience, and perseverance all require strength, but God promises to provide it.
No matter what challenges come, His strength is always enough.