When life becomes hard and challenging for all of us, we often tend to hang on to the things that we trust the most. Bad times are good times for us to find out what is that thing that we really rely on.

Some of us will hold on to material possessions when we are faced with some sort of turmoil. Some of us will run to a trusted friend, most likely one who we know has the power to help us in our predicament. Worse, a few of us could be tempted to grab a knife and end our lives – simply because we don't have anything to hold on to.

Friend, no matter what happens, we must realise that there are some things we can hold on to. Here are three things you should hold on to when life becomes unbearably hard

1. God's promises

The Bible presents to us various promises made by God for our good. One of these promises that greatly encourage me is Jeremiah 29:11.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Whenever I remember this promise I am encouraged to know that God plans for my good. If I am going through a tough time, I know that His plan is to strengthen me to overcome and to see me through. It's the same for you. Believe it! Hold on to God's promises in His Word.

2. Christ's finished work

Looking at Christ's cross also greatly encourages us when we face trying times. Why? It's because we know that through the cross, Christ has won the victory for us (see John 16:33).

Christ didn't just pay the price for our salvation and deliverance from sin and death's grasp, as well as canceling the record of charges against us because of our sins, but He also disarmed Satan and his minions, rendering them powerless over our lives (see Colossians 2:13-15). He did not remain dead, but was raised again, victorious over all the enemy has done.

Because of Christ's death and resurrection, we have hope.

3. The indwelling Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit of God dwells inside you. This simply means that when you face hard times, you're not facing them alone – God faces all that you face with you.

God has placed the Holy Spirit in us as a guarantee that we are His children and that we will receive all that He promised (see Romans 8:16; Ephesians 1:14; 2 Corinthians 1:22). His presence in us also confirms that He is our very present help in every time of need (see Psalm 46:1).