Kerry, If you are just starting out, this may help. I used to do this for hours to develop the muscles in my left hand. Take your index finger and bar it across the 7th fret. Take your ring finger and put it on the 9th fret 5th string play the 5th and 6th strings. Thats a B5. now play that in 4/4 time and on beats 2 and 4, put your pinky on the 5th string 11th fret (up and down with the timing) Count 1and2and3and4and, thats a blues stretch and will have your hand stronger very quickly. take your time and take breaks but keep at it, You will see results. Do it every day for two weeks, and you will see results. It's hard work but you Have to clear that hurdle. Good Luck.