5 Ways to Strengthen Your Faith
Even When It’s Hard with Tasha Layton
Tasha Layton, gifted singer, songwriter, and author, known for her heartfelt music and inspiring life story, first gained recognition as a finalist on the popular TV show “American Idol” and later served as a backup vocalist for renowned artists such as Katy Perry. She sat down with Family Life Radio to talk for a few minutes.
Tasha’s journey, marked by personal struggles and profound faith experiences, has shaped her into a powerful voice in contemporary Christian music. Her passion for helping others find freedom and identity in Christ is evident in her songs and her recently published book, where she shares her testimony and the lessons learned along the way. Through her work, Tasha continues to touch hearts and inspire hope in countless lives.
Speaking of her personal relationship with God and how it’s grown throughout the various stages of her life and career, Tasha shared, “Looking back now, I can see God’s hand through it all. But I think when we’re walking through the challenges, when we’re walking through the thick forest, you feel hopeless at times. You feel devastated. You don’t see a way out.”
Even when life feels overwhelming and hopeless, God is always present and working in your life.
Trust that He has a plan, even when you can’t see it.
To help you see God’s hand in your life, try keeping a journal. Document moments where you feel His presence and revisit these entries during tough times. This practice can help you remember that God is always with you, guiding you through every season.
Be Honest About Your Questions and Struggles
During challenging times, it’s normal to have questions and doubts about God’s presence. Tasha candidly expressed her struggles, saying, “God, are you with me? Did I do something to deserve this? Are you holding out on me? All those human questions that we have in our fallen state.”
These questions are part of our human experience in a fallen world and acknowledging them is the first step toward deepening your faith.
Creating a safe space to express your doubts can be incredibly healing. Find a trusted spiritual mentor or join a supportive community where you can share your struggles openly. Remember, even the Psalmist cried out to God in times of distress: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:11 NIV).
Growth Comes Through Challenges
Tasha admitted that during her most challenging seasons, her faith and patience were not as strong as they are today. “And I think, while I was walking through it, in all of those seasons, I did not have the faith that I have today. I did not have the patience that I have today. … And so, I think back to all those stages and each one was special. And I learned those lessons along the way.”
Your current struggles can strengthen your faith, patience, and spiritual roots over time.
Take a moment to reflect on past challenges and identify how they have strengthened your faith. This reflection can help you see your growth and encourage you to persevere through current difficulties. James 1:2-4 reminds us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (NIV).
Seek Freedom and Security in Christ
One of the most transformative aspects of Tasha’s journey is the freedom and security she found in Christ. “I felt His presence. But was I content? Absolutely not. Was I at peace? Absolutely not. I think for most of my life I felt tormented to so to be walking through life with the freedom that I feel now and the security and who I am in Christ, in my identity, in Him, my self-worth, my value, who that is, is like a dream come true. If you ask what I’m most thankful for now, it’s that feeling. And I want everyone to feel that. “
Finding your identity, self-worth, and value in Christ brings true peace.
To experience this transformation, spend regular time in prayer and Bible study. Deepen your relationship with Christ, and let His truth shape your identity. Tasha’s journey is a powerful reminder that your worth is found in Him, and in Him alone, you can find true freedom.
The Power of Testimony
Tasha believes in the power of sharing and hearing others’ stories: “We overcome by the blood of the lamb in the word of our testimony.”
Sharing your testimony and hearing others’ can inspire hope and encouragement in your own faith journey.
Consider joining or forming a small group where testimonies can be shared and celebrated. Hearing how God has worked in others’ lives can remind you of His faithfulness and inspire hope that He is working in your life too.
We’d love to experience your story too. Click here to share your journey with us.
Remember, God’s plan is always at work, even when it’s not immediately visible.
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