When was the last time you struggled with something in your soul? Perhaps you wrestled with self-doubt or discouragement following a mistake or a series of disappointments. Maybe fear threatened you to not dare move forward in faith. From time to time, we all struggle with conflicting emotions, thoughts, and wills.

Fortunately, we don’t have to fight our battles alone. Romans 8:34 reassures us that Jesus intercedes for all who believe in Him. God may also lead people with the spiritual gift of intercession to pray for us.

Sometimes help comes when we let family members and friends know what we’re going through. In addition to praying for us, they can remind us of the truth we need to overcome in that moment. Sometimes we simply need to hear:

• You are not alone.
• You will be okay.
• You won’t always feel this way.
• You are stronger than you think.
• You can do/get through this.
• I believe in you.
• Just breathe.

The Apostle Paul knew believers would face struggles on this earth. Years ago, he advised them to not only arm themselves with faith, hope, love, and self-control—but also to encourage each other and give each other strength (1 Thessalonians 5:8, 11). If we continue to apply these words of wisdom in our lives today, we, too, will emerge victorious from every struggle.