Pressed, But Not Crushed: Finding Strength in Christ Through Overwhelming Seasons
There was a season that nearly broke me. I was leading a multimillion-dollar project with relentless deadlines, high complexity, and—at one point—a major part of the load shifted onto me. Add two little ones and a household to manage, and the pressure was crushing.
Clinging to Truth in the Midst of Chaos
During that time, I clung to Colossians 3:2 (NIV): “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” In verses 1–4, Paul urges us to live in light of our new identity in Christ.
I remember sacred moments of praise—some in traffic, weary from long days; others at the stove, hands lifted through tears as “Goodness of God” played. Those moments became my surrender, my battleground, and my sanctuary.
Seeing God in the Everyday
As I fixed my eyes on Jesus and His eternal reign—rather than drowning in my circumstance—I not only felt His nearness, I began to see Him everywhere: in the shimmer of sunlight on the lake, in birds dancing through the sky, in majestic sunsets on my drive home. Creation whispered: God is still on the throne.
When Pressure Becomes a Refining Fire
That season pressed hard, but God used it to refine me—forming a heart tender with worship and rich in gratitude. He taught me that gratitude unlocks joy and lifts our eyes to Him. And worship—it’s not about perfect words or timing. It’s a heart that leans in, even when broken.
The Lord Is Near to the Brokenhearted
I lived the truth of David’s words, written when he too was desperate and on the run:
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
Christ was so near. When I was empty, He gave me strength. When anxiety spiraled, He steadied me. When I wept on the floor, He carried me.
Sister, You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling the pressure, know this: you are not alone (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27). Christ is within you. Keep showing up. Keep worshiping. His promises will not fail you.
“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Looking Back with Gratitude
One day, you’ll look back—not just at the tears—but at the beauty God revealed along the way. Because even when life pressed hard, you were not crushed. Christ was in you, and His strength sustained you.
Meet the Author
Liezl Roux
Liezl is a South African-born Aussie, wife to the man of God she once prayed for, and mama to two Jesus-loving littles who keep her on her toes and on her knees. Somewhere between school runs, managing projects, and her household, she’s learning — again and again — who she is in Christ, and finding that grace shows up right in the mess.
Her greatest desire? That her words carry heaven’s breath—that, like the woman with the little jar of oil in 2 Kings 4, God would multiply what she offers in faith and obedience to overflow into the lives of many.
