Five Simple Ways to Find Deeper Faith In Challenging Times

Finding Deeper Faith

As Catholic Christians, we have been give the gift of faith through our Baptism and also through the on-going gifts of the Sacraments of our faith. These gift our a treasure, and we must keep the knowledge of God's love and of the gifts he gives us in our faith each day.

Here are five simple ways you can "find God" when he seems far away during a time of crisis or challenge in your family life or personal life. The initial mission of the St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation is ministry to families and individuals affected by divorce. No matter what your family or individual circumstance is in life, we are here to support, prayer and guide you toward Our Lord who can offer healing.

Five Ways to Increase Faith

Recognize You Need for God. When challenges happen, we sometimes "run" to our friends and family for answers. This is a good thing, but remember God has all of the answers which in his own time he will reveal Slow down your heart and mind and recognize that one day at time, he will guide you in tough times.

Take Quiet Time in Prayer to Reflect

When problems exist, most of us have a tendency to search for answers right away. Before jumping to any conclusions, take it before God before making life changing decisions. Go to Eucharistic Adoration in a Chapel or nearby Catholic Church and sit in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Perhaps you won't need to say anything, but just "be with the Lord". If your heart moves toward prayer at that time, pray the Rosary to Our Lady or recite a favorite prayer slowly. Stay as long as you feel comfortable at the Chapel or Church. Holy Hours are a great devotion to Jesus and time with him.

Separate Yourself from Useless Drama

Gossip and negative speech exist both outside and inside the Church. If you sense negativity or gossipy behavior, excuse yourself. Staying positive about your situation will only help. Take it all to God, and believe that no matter what God has a great plan for you life. Stay with Our Lord in prayer each day and live on the positive side of life despite crosses and difficulties. With prayer and perseverance, God will make a way during your time of pain.

Help Others

Helping other people is a great way to see the good in your own life, and you make a difference for others, too! Volunteer at your Church, at a food pantry or soup kitchen or get involved in the pro-life movement. Do something to help people to overcome the sorrows of life. Perhaps you have a friend who could use your help? There are many ways to help others. Go in the direction the Holy Spirit leads you.

Keep Praying for Both Yourself and for Others

While you are helping people, you will find many things to pray about. Continue with your devotion to God through prayer and the Sacramental life as a Catholic. There is nothing greater than your faith, and it will carry you through all of the difficulties of life. Pray for those your encounter who may have been through a similar circumstance as yourself. You will make a difference for them and for God.

St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation

The St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation is here for you. Our mission is outreach to families and individuals in crisis or difficult family situations. Please feel free to reach out to us via our website at www.nonnatus.org.. You can also email us at director.srnf@gmail.com or phone us at 215-870-9913. Our Mercedarian friars and our community have a heart for outreach to those who are "in danger of losing their faith" and those in need of our support. Feel free to spread the word to others about us. We are praying for YOU.