We all have a different understanding of faith in our daily lives. For some, it can be rooted in church traditions. For some, it can be a belief in self. And for others, it may be a nontraditional form of spirituality. But regardless of the belief system that you follow, the Bible verse in the chapter of Matthew reflects the power that faith can have: “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

For most of us, faith is the engine that keeps us going in the face of adversity and challenge, the certainty that things will get better, that good always comes. Here are five ways to keep faith in your daily life.

Start Each Day With a Morning Devotional

This can take many forms. It might be a scripture reading that you keep in your mind throughout the day. It could be an inspirational quote — many books like these exist that provide a quote each day that highlights the importance of a positive spirit and outlook. Or, it could be 15 minutes of mindfulness, a quiet time to settle the soul before the business of the day.

Give to Others

We are reminded of the goodness of our lives, the gratefulness that boosts faith, when we reach out to those in need. Tithe at church. Organize a neighborhood toy drive during the holidays. Volunteer your time or talent — or both — to a cause you are passionate about.

Prayer

Pray. Every day. At any time of the day. But pray consistently. Research has shown the power of prayer can give us strength we didn’t know we had to overcome grief, challenge, or great adversity. It can fuel the energy to persevere. It can remind us to notice simple blessings. Prayer does not have to be an organized verse — it can simply be a conversation with a Being we believe in.

Keep a Gratitude Journal

You can buy a gratitude journal at a bookstore or online with specific guidelines, or you can make your own. But the key is to reflect at the day’s end and write down three or five — or whatever number you choose — things that happened during the day for which you are grateful. A smile from your two-year-old. The tulips blooming in your garden. The promotion you received at work. The little gift from your spouse for no reason at all. Anything and everything that brought you joy. Acknowledging those blessings helps us start the next morning already a step ahead.

Surround Yourself With Likeminded People

Attend church or join an organization that aligns with your beliefs. For many of us, gathering together with others who share our values and beliefs helps deepen and grow our faith. Community means support in times of need and celebration in times of joy. Knowing we are not alone, either in this world or in the spiritual one, strengthens faith immeasurably.