Every year, the world’s tallest mountain attracts adventurers who want to conquer the climb.

But it isn’t the rocks or wildlife on Mt. Everest that pose the greatest threat. It is a lack of oxygen. The top 848 meters of the mountain is called the “death zone.” There, fainting is deadly. Oxygen is so scarce that unprepared hikers can literally lose their breath. Unless climbers have perseverance, they’ll faint.

Experienced climbers know the only way to endure the highest portion of Everest is to be prepared. At four miles above sea level, hearts must be strong enough to handle the vigorous pumping that having 40% less oxygen causes. Blood must slowly be acclimated to the altitude so it can develop more red blood cells to carry what little oxygen there is.

In the midst of burdensome situations, we can cause our own spiritual passing out, if we’re not prepared.

Praying, reading God’s Word, memorizing scripture, and singing His praises strengthens our heart for God. When life is sweet, developing our spiritual heart muscle is important. Also, trusting Him through the everyday smaller trials will acclimate us for tougher times.

God doesn’t always move the mountains in our life, but building a persevering faith can enable us to conquer them.