Struggle (n): a long term effort to do, achieve or deal with something that is difficult or that causes problems.
All business leaders face struggles. For many, if it weren't for the struggles, we'd have little to do.
When it comes to our business struggles, the apostle Paul's approach is perhaps the best:
"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed" (2 Cor. 4:8-9).
So how can we overcome our business struggles and keep them from overwhelming us?
Here are 4 truths on how to overcome business struggles.
4 Truths to Overcome Business Struggles
- Remember Your Ultimate Partner
"Be strong and courageous, and take action. Do not be afraid nor be dismayed for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work of the service of the house of the Lord" (1 Chron. 28:20).
David's advice to Solomon rings just as true today as when he said this to his son, Solomon. When we know our work is of the Lord it and we do all for His glory, we can be certain that God is with us every step of the way.
Do your part of the work, and God will do his. Can you think of a better business partner? Me neither.
- Focus on the Straight Path
"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in an upright path, because of my enemies" (Ps. 27:11).
"For You are my rock and my fortress; for Your name's sake lead me and guide me" (Ps. 31:3).
During tough times, we easily get distracted seeking all the new and improved ways to succeed. It is far better during these times to simply get back on the right path—the straight path—and stop taking so many tempting detours.
- Push Through the Darkness
"For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light" (Ps. 36:9).
"To the upright there arises light in the darkness; he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous ... He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord" (Ps. 112:4, 7).
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Ps. 119:105).
Most struggles seem like dark, lonely and even dangerous alleys. Yet we know that even a tiny match can turn away the darkness, both spiritually and physically. Push through the darkness of your business struggles by holding firm to the light of your faith.
- Trust in Him First
"It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man" (Ps. 118:8)
"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, yes, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Is. 41:10).
It is easy these days to simply Google an answer to our problems. Don't start there.
Although I earn my living through advising, consulting, coaching, writing and speaking, I am the first to exhort clients to always seek God's ideas first. Trust Him first, then weigh all other advice against His perfect will.
Remember
You are not in this alone. There is a right path. Keep pushing through the muck. Trust His direction. 
Dr. Jim Harris is the author of 14 award-winning business books including Our Unfair Advantage: Unleash the Power of the Holy Spirit in Your Business. Download his free Five-Fold Leadership Survey. Connect with Dr. Jim on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
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