Real talk—life isn’t easy.

We all face days when the weight of our circumstances feels like too much to carry. But here’s the good news: God’s strength is not just a vague hope or a distant possibility. It’s a promise—one that’s meant to be received, not just admired from afar. Throughout Scripture, God’s reputation is clear: He is the Lord who gives strength to His people. Psalm 29:11 says, “The LORD gives his people strength; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” You might be wondering, “If God’s strength is promised, why don’t I always feel it?” Here’s the hard truth: God’s promises are available to us, but they aren’t automatic. Receiving His strength isn’t like a divine download that just happens while we’re on autopilot. There’s a part we play in accessing what God has already made available. But there is a trap that depletes our ability to receive God’s strength… complaining. Let me be honest—complaining comes easy, especially when life gets hard. We tell ourselves we’re just venting, but often it’s simply a way to dress up our frustration. Here’s what I’ve learned: complaining and God’s strength can’t occupy the same space in your soul at the same time. When we fixate on our hardships, our hearts drift from the true source of strength. We live in a culture conditioned to respond with outrage or victimhood. But God offers a better way. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” The focus isn’t on the problem, but on the Person—Jesus, who empowers us. Now, don’t get me wrong—there’s a place for pouring out your heart to God (Psalm 62:8). But see it as a sequence: pour out your heart, then listen for the invitation deep within to acknowledge, “Strength belongs to God” (Psalm 62:11) That’s the turning point. We vent and say what we need to say, then we let God’s word have his turn. That’s when we move from complaining to receiving his strength.