BUILDING RESILIENCE

“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance” – Romans 5:3

From a biblical viewpoint, BUILDING RESILIENCE is crucial for God-glorifying Impact: “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance character; and character, hope” (Rom.5: 3-4). The Bible word for Resilience is Perseverance. To build resilience means to learn to persevere in the face of challenges and changes, inspired by biblical examples. Building resilience strengthens faith, deepens character, and allows believers to endure challenges and trials with hope, ultimately serving God and influencing others through their steadfastness. 

Resilience isn't just about bouncing back; it's about standing firm despite the trials. Joseph’s journey from the pit to the palace exemplifies resilience as he clung to God's promises, emerging stronger through trials (Genesis 37-50). Resilience involves trusting God's overarching plan, even when the present circumstances seem insurmountable. It's about maintaining faith and integrity, allowing God to weave a beautiful tapestry from the threads of trials. The key principles in building resilience include: Trusting in God's Strength, anchoring ourselves in His promises, learning persistence, and finding purpose in challenges.

Resilience is built on trusting God's Plan and relying on His Strength, which allows for a hopeful, long-term perspective even in difficult circumstances. By cultivating inner resilience and spiritual endurance through faith, we can stand firm in adversity, sustaining spiritual well-being and continuing to serve God and humanity. Embracing challenges and understanding God's greater purpose in them allows us to emerge stronger and more capable, leading to a deeper impact on the world around us.

Cultivating Resilience involves anchoring in God’s Promises: “By which have been given to is exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2Pet.1:4). Focusing on His enduring promises, provides strength independent of changing circumstances. This infers engaging with scriptures and reflecting on God's Word to build faith, strength, and comfort during difficult times. Rather than shy away from challenges, we are to face them with faith, trusting in God’s guidance to overcome them and grow. 

Our Lord Jesus Christ modelled the Resilient Life: “Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered” (Heb.5:8); “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb.12:2). His suffering and ultimate triumph will equip us to endure our own trials with courage and faith.  The Apostle Paul's words highlight that resilience comes from Christ's Strength, not our own: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2Cor.12:9).