What Does True Strength Look Like?

When most people hear the word strength, they picture muscles. Heavy weights. Early alarms. Pushing through pain.

But what if it’s doing the hard thing, even when you don’t feel like it?

That’s strength too.

The world glorifies hustle, grind, and physical power. And those things certainly do hold value, but in God’s kingdom, strength can also be quieter. Gentler. Deeper. It’s not always visible, but it’s always valuable.

“Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NLT)

That means strength isn’t about never feeling weak.

It’s about who you lean on when you do.

True Strength Is…

Getting out of bed when you’re discouraged

Sometimes, strength is as simple as showing up. Not even necessarily with a plan. Just with the decision to try again today. Even if yesterday was hard. Even if you’re not sure what comes next.

Worshipping when you're still waiting

It takes strength to praise God for who He is before you see what He’s doing. That kind of worship shifts your perspective. It reminds your spirit that even in silence, God is still good, and He’s still working.

Honoring your body when you want to criticize it

Culture teaches us to fix, shrink, or shame our bodies. But real strength is in honor. Choose to nourish, move, and care for your body because it’s the home God gave you, not because it meets a certain standard.

Surrender

There is nothing more powerful than surrender. It’s not giving up—it’s giving over. Letting God be in control. Trusting His timing. Believing He’s holding what you can’t carry. That’s not weakness. That’s holy strength.

Strength of Spirit, Mind, and Body

Holistic strength builds up your body, sharpens your mind, and anchors your spirit. One without the others will always leave you imbalanced and exhausted.

True strength comes when all three work in harmony—when you're fueled physically, grounded mentally, and rooted spiritually.

You don’t have to prove your strength to the world.

You just have to walk in the strength God already placed in you.

You’re stronger than you feel—especially when you surrender.

Keep showing up. Keep feeding your faith. Keep becoming.

You don’t need to look strong.

You just need to be strong—in Him.

I hope this served you well!

Amber Dabney Smith

Your Hope Dealer