Life has a way of closing in. Sometimes it feels like trouble is coming from every direction—financial strain, broken relationships, spiritual battles, and inner doubts. But even when pressure surrounds you, you are not abandoned or without hope.

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8–9) “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” (Psalm 9:9)

Paul understood the crushing weight of life’s trials—but he also knew the sustaining power of God. The presence of trouble doesn’t mean the absence of God. In fact, it’s in the thick of our trials that His strength shines brightest.

You may feel surrounded, but you're also upheld. Trouble may press in, but it can’t crush what Christ has redeemed. He is your strength when you’re weak, your peace when life is chaotic, and your anchor when everything feels unstable.

Don’t give up. You are pressed—but never alone.

🙏 Prayer: A Prayer for Strength in the Middle of Trouble

Lord, I feel surrounded. There’s pressure on every side, and I’m weary. But I know You are my refuge. Remind me that I am not crushed, not forgotten, and not defeated.

Fill me with Your strength where mine runs out. Help me to trust You when I can’t see a way through. Be my peace in the chaos and my hope in the storm.

I may be pressed, but I will not be broken—because You hold me.

In Jesus’ name,

 Amen.