Jim was an Army officer and was called on to organize a big event for the brass. Generals would be flying in from around the world for the two-day affair. Jim’s reputation was on the line, as well as his chances for promotion. He saw it as a test of his capabilities to lead, and it was a big one.

For months, Jim prepared each element of the event, from travel to the agenda to the ceremonies. He had a tiny team to help him, so it really was his event to make succeed or fail.

Jim was a believer, so this pressure-cooker was also a test of his faith.

When the pressure is on, does your faith kick in? Or is it stifled?

Being overwhelmed can suppress our faith. For instance, when our schedule is unrelenting, it can own us. Our minds race towards the next set of responsibilities and arriving at the next commitment on time.

Christmas season, graduation, special events, a tight schedule or the flurry of family activities apply pressure to our lives. You might be in that zone right now. At times like this, the way we act and respond might not look any different than a non-believer’s response. 

How tragic. Our faith should shine under pressure. As in Jim’s case, we have the opportunity to demonstrate faith in action.

Instead of allowing these things to squeeze us and attack our walk with God, let’s push back with faith.

Your faith is something that grows from the inside out. It’s Christ-centered inner strength. Faith is confidence in God that results in peace from the Holy Spirit. You can’t whip it up under pressure. It develops over time as your relationship with Jesus deepens.

Think of it this way. An eagle forms inside an egg for 35 days. When it has fully developed, this little eaglet pushes out of the egg and into the world. It grows and feeds from the beak of its mother. Then it flies. And soon after, this growing eagle learns to feed itself.

Your eagle-like faith will take more than a few months. But when it matures, it will show itself by how you respond in the overwhelming seasons.

Do you really believe that the situation you’re in is bigger than God? Of course not! Relax and know that God has this. Take a deep breath and get perspective. By faith, give your overwhelming circumstance or burden to God. Trust him to handle whatever is pressuring you.

Experience what Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV)

What an incredible promise for challenging times. Live by faith in the all-powerful, sovereign God. He will give you peace.

Deepen your relationship with Jesus before the pressure arrives. Feed yourself with God’s Word, just like a soaring eagle. Pour your heart out to God in prayer. You’ll be better prepared for the overwhelming times.

(From my devotional Your Life With God: 30 Days of Faith. Available in Kindle and paperback formats on Amazon).