How to Remain Steadfast When You've Been Shaken to the Core

When the storms of like shake our world, how do we react? Do we fall into a pattern of worry that leads to panic? Do we hold on for dear life, praying for the storm to pass? Or do we put on a fake smile and charge ahead in our own strength, only to feel exhausted and depleted when we realize we can’t handle it on our own?

Woman on a rocky beach contemplating. Title says how to remain steadfast when you've been shaken to the core.

In this life, difficulties will come. Circumstances will shift and churn, leaving us feeling unsteady and unable to hold on. Because the truth is, when our world shakes, it leaves us feeling shaken to the core, as well.

So what do we do when we’ve been shaken to the core? How do we remain steadfast, trusting the Lord to be our guide, our peace, and our strong tower in desperate times?

How I Discovered True Steadfastness in the Face of Adversity

For the past several years, my world has been rocked worse than I ever could have fathomed. I’ve been blindsided with one devastating diagnosis after another, all while navigating grief and loss. I’ve tried to be as consistent as possible with my daily Bible reading, prayer time, and devotions. But when life is unsteady, it’s hard to maintain that consistency. 

Sometimes, just getting showered and dressed is a win. Other days, my prayer time includes nothing but an urgent plea for help. So please know from my heart; you can release any expectations you have for yourself in this season. God knows your motives. And if your heart longs to draw closer to him, your focus is right where it needs to be.

Pin for later!

Each day, I take a few moments to direct my thoughts toward my heavenly Father. I commit to staying in the present moment, not letting my thoughts shift to regrets of the past or fretting over the future. Then, I ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten me to the ways of God. I read a passage from his Word—sometimes it’s only one verse—and I trust God to reveal his goodness and power in my life. 

Whatever comes my way in the minutes, hours, or days ahead, I know I’ve started with a foundation that will not fail.

3 Ways We Can Remain Steady When Everything Around Us Feels Unsteady


Scripture gives us truth we can hold on to when we feel like we may lose our footing. In the past, I’ve had a tendency to turn to my own strength. I try to look strong for others as I handle things on my own. I post motivational quotes on social media and try to sound like I’m the fiercest prayer warrior around! But my own meager strength will only get me so far before weariness takes over. God is our ultimate strength. His supply is unlimited, and he is willing and ready to carry us with his firm and steady hands.

Here are 3 truths that will anchor us in the storms:

  1. Know that the shaking is not in vain. God will remove what is weighing you down so that only a reflection of his Spirit remains. Then, others will see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in you.

“This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain.” Hebrews 12:27 NLT


2. Rely on the Holy Spirit to give life, and that renewed life will shine forth in your countenance and bring hope to a hurting world.

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” Romans 8:11 NLT


3. Remember, when your world quakes, the foundation beneath you will never give way. If you’ve put your hope in God, you can count on Jesus, the solid rock.

“The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” Matthew 7:25 NIV

Woman sitting on a beach alone on a cold day. Text is Matthew 7:25.

If today you are struggling to stand firm because you’ve been shaken to the core, you are not alone. Be encouraged by these comforting verses and know God is with you. He will never leave you to struggle alone.

Maybe you’ve looked at other women of faith and wondered how they seem so steadfast when they’ve been through so much turmoil. Let God’s immeasurable strength sustain you as you anchor your hope in him.

With Jesus as our foundation and the Holy Spirit filling us with eternal hope, we will emerge from our trials shaped more like the person God created us to be. 

Rahab understood what it meant to hold onto God’s promises when your world shakes. Her walls literally crumbled around her, yet she remained steadfast in the midst of uncertainty. If you’d like to learn more about Rahab, sign up for my free 5-day email study about Rahab here.

You’ll learn how to remain unwavering when making difficult decisions as you walk through Rahab’s story. Through her life, we can discover a new life-changing level of trust in God.

Women in the Bible: 12 Powerful Books Worth Reading

One of my favorite topics to read about is women whose stories are told in Scripture. Their lives reach a deep place in my soul as a modern woman of faith. Each story chosen by God to teach, encourage, and uplift hurting hearts. 

What a gift we have in the stories of women in the Bible.

A group of women reading books together. Women in the Bible, 12 Powerful Books Worth Reading.

These women, although separated from us by the spans of time, have so much in common with what we experience today. As I read about their journeys—the hardships, the victories, and the everyday challenges they face—I’m drawn into the messages they share. Their words, actions, and testimonies are timeless. And when we choose to read them with hearts eager to learn, we will discover more inspiration than we thought possible.

Why Read About Women of the Bible?

In my journey as reader, researcher, and writer about women of the Bible, I’ve read countless books on the topic. Some of these biblical women, many of us have heard of. Others are lesser-known. But one thing they all represent—the love our Almighty God has for his precious daughters. 

There’s been much discussion (and even controversy) lately about women in ministry. But there’s one thing on which we can all agree: God cherishes women. He sees them, loves them, protects them, and uses them for his glory.

Recommended Reads from a Variety of Authors

Of all the books I’ve read on this important topic, there are a few I recommend as must-reads.

Some look at the lives of several women, covering one per chapter. Others focus on one specific woman with a unique story, or maybe a few whose stories point us to one truth to hold on to. I’ve included a variety in this list, to give you options depending on what style you like.

Pin this post!

A few of these are from newer authors, while some have been on bookstore shelves for years. One thing they all have in common is that I’ve found them to be scripturally safe and unique in their approach.

I love a book that gives a fresh take on a timeless truth.

Below you’ll find 12 books about women in the Bible on my must-read list. For each one, I’ve given a snapshot that includes who I recommend the book for, its best qualities, and extra features. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have no doubt adding any of these books to your reading list will be a blessing.


The Girl’s Still Got It: Take a Walk with Ruth and the God Who Rocked Her World

By Liz Curtis Higgs

Recommended for: Women who enjoy a biographical story that reads like a novel.

Best qualities: Vivid writing, relates well to women today, timeless.

Extra features: Quotes from women at the end of the chapters, sharing how they can relate to Ruth’s story, discussion questions and study guide included in the back.


The Most Overlooked Women of the Bible: What Their Stories Teach Us About Being Seen and Heard

By Mary DeMuth

Recommended for: Readers who want a well-researched, biblically sound, and relatable take on the stories of women in Scripture.

Best qualities: Presented in an easily digestible format with memorable quotes and takeaways that stick with you.

Extra features: Questions for discussion at the end of each chapter, along with bulleted thoughts to remember.


It's Good to Be Queen: Becoming as Bold, Gracious, and Wise as the Queen of Sheba

By Liz Curtis Higgs

Recommended for: Women who enjoy reading stories of lesser-known women in the Bible.

Best qualities: The author’s signature bold and vibrant writing style.

Extra features: Discussion guide and study questions included in the back.


Cinched: Living with Unwavering Trust in an Unfailing God

By Kristine Brown

Recommended for: Women of faith who want to deepen their trust in God while learning more about an inspiring woman in Scripture.

Best qualities: Over 100 verses throughout, author includes personal relatable experiences, prayers at the end of each chapter.

Extra features: glossary of God’s promises, companion workbook available.


Why Her?: 6 Truths We Need to Hear When Measuring Up Leaves Us Falling Behind

By Nicki Koziarz

Recommended for: Women who struggle with comparison and appreciate practical, real life solutions.

Best qualities: The author's down-to-earth writing style and ability to relate women in the Bible to our lives today.

Extra features: though questions, memorable takeaways.


The Women of the Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and Their Lessons for Today

By Shannon Bream

Recommended for: Readers who appreciate a book that stays true to the biblical accounts of the lives of women in Scripture.

Best qualities: Organized in a way that invites the reader to make connections and deepen understanding.

Extra features: Hardback copy available, easy to use as a reference book or Bible study but pretty enough to be a coffee table display book.


The Women of Christmas: Experience the Season Afresh with Elizabeth, Mary, and Anna

By Liz Curtis Higgs

Recommended for: Women who long to experience the wonder of the holiday season through the eyes of the women in Jesus’ lineage.

Best qualities: A beautiful book with a seasonal message of hope.

Extra features: Available as a hardcover, would make a great gift book.


Refilled: Finding Fullness in God When Life Leaves You Empty

By Kristine Brown

Recommended for: Women of faith who’ve experienced unfathomable loss and are looking for biblically sound hope in the midst of real life struggle.

Best qualities: Thoughtfully researched, descriptive storytelling, a familiar story told from a unique perspective.

Extra features: A complete set of reflection pages for each chapter included in the appendix, suggested reading plan.

(Free to read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription here.)


Little Women, Big God

By Debbie Wilson

Recommended for: Readers who want to discover the fascinating stories of the women in Jesus’ family tree.

Best qualities: Thoroughly researched and a message from which women of all ages can benefit.

Extra features: Bible study format, each week containing daily lessons, thought provoking questions.


He Knows Your Name: How 7 Nameless Women of the Bible Reveal Christ’s Love for You

By Paige Allen

Recommended for: Women who love to learn about women in the Bible and are looking for something fresh and new.

Best qualities: A unique perspective on the foundational truth of God’s love.

Extra features: Available in all formats, including audiobook.


Reference books:

All the Women of the Bible

Edith Deen

An exhaustive list of every woman in Scripture—both named and unnamed. An encyclopedia of information to keep on the shelf for quick reference or in-depth study.

Free to read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription here.


Twelve Extraordinary Women: How God Shaped Women of the Bible, and What He Wants to Do with You

John MacArthur

One of the more widely read books about women in the Bible, covering 12 of the more well-known women, like Ruth, Hannah, Mary and Martha.

Free to read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription here.


If you make any purchases through links on this page, I may get a small commission at no additional cost to you, which helps keep this ministry running. Thank you!