Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by the problems of today? Standing alone against a multitude of challenges can be daunting. It’s you facing a list of obstacles: changes, bills, fears, questions, deadlines, and many others.

The odds might seem heavily stacked against you. They were similarly set against the biblical figure Elijah, with odds of 850 to 1. His story, found in the Old Testament, holds lessons that apply to modern times.

Elijah’s life involved challenges similar to those we encounter. The ninth century B.C. was difficult for the Jews. Successive corrupt kings led the people away from a godly way of life. This era, once remembered for King Solomon’s temple, became marred by idol worship and evil practices. Does this sound familiar?

We face a world undergoing rapid change. Distress and anxiety are common as we navigate new beliefs. The bad news around us compounds fears from economic challenges to personal struggles with a doctor’s report or work issues.

Yet, faith offers courage. The worldview of those with faith differs from others. Elijah’s story shows that belief can generate strength even when a culture dismisses it.

This echoes the experience of LeeAdianez Rodriguez-Espada, a 12-year-old who inadvertently ran a half-marathon instead of a 5K race. Realizing the mistake, she continued running, determined to reach the end. Like her, we must keep going in life’s race, accepting challenges with resolve.

Our goal is not to finish first, but to persevere. Though it may feel like you’re alone against the world, reconsider. You are surrounded by divine support.

With faith, you can live courageously amid uncertainty. Like young LeeAdianez, like Elijah, you can finish strong.

Max Lucado, known as “America’s Pastor,” emphasizes this in his writings. His extensive body of work, including the upcoming book Unbreakable Courage: Strong Faith in an Age of Anxiety, Chaos, and Exhaustion, encourages readers to draw strength from faith. Explore more of his insight at MaxLucado.com.