Introduction: Someone has said that it is not the “sharks” that kill you instead, it is the minnows that nibble you to death”! Well anyway, the burdens and hardships of life can make us feel like fainting. Especially the things that we cannot control. We read in Proverbs 24:10, these words,

“If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.”

Wow! What a challenge! This is a great verse to ponder when you are facing a lot of stress and pressure.

1. Did you notice the words, ” If thou FAINT in the day of adversity”? (Prov 24:10)

The word “faint” is רָפָה, (raw-faw’), which means to sink. Peter sank. Why? He took his eyes off Jesus. Are your eyes on Him?

2. Did you notice the words, ” If thou FAINT in the day of adversity”? (Prov 24:10)

The word “adversity” is צָרָה: (tsaw-raw’), which means straits, distress. At times, honestly, we feel stressed out. Or at other times, we feel in distress, which means extreme anxiety, or sorrow. Are you anxious? Worried? Lonely? Sorrowful? Remember. We have a refuge and shelter in Jesus Christ. Whether you are in distress because of unconfessed sin or uncontrollable circumstances, either way, we can find Peace and Security in our Lord.

3. Did you notice the words, “If thou FAINT in the day of adversity, Thy strength is small”? (Prov 24:10)

Compared to the strength of our Lord, our strength is always small. But with His Holy Spirit our strength can reach supernatural heights. Will you tap into His strength today?

Conclusion: Confession time. There have been times in probably all of our CHRISTian pilgrimage that we’ve felt like fainting. But on the other hand, with Jesus Christ as our power source who has faced adversity, hostility,and agony, and yet with victory, we can overcome and keep from fainting. Are you facing hard times today? Turn to Jesus. Trust in Jesus. Triumph in Jesus. He will keep you from “fainting” when things get rough! His peace, and promises along with His presence, gives us strength to carry on! Amen!!