Romans 4:18-25 (NIV). True strength begins with humility and surrender. Only through humbling ourselves, to acknowledge and have faith in God's ability that we can endure hardships. Knowing and having the faith has to be accompanied by works as it is written "faith without works is dead". God is looking for the response from us, those who are willing to collaborate and corporate with His plan. Lastly, it's through the victory on the cross that we can have the strength to endure hardships - it's done and sealed. Strength begins when we receive God's victory.