Adversity will always be present, that is a fact of life. It is important to appreciate that even as you set yourself to achieve your goals, there are factors and challenges that emerge which are likely to affect your strategies. Perhaps you are now struggling with issues like your mark has not improved as you had anticipated, even after pushing yourself more. Possibly, you have even dropped position in class, and you don’t feel motivated anymore to push yourself, wake up early or go the extra mile. Maybe the issue you’re facing is difficulties at home or strained relationships with the people around you. I want to reassure you; you can always find a way through it and build your resilience.
Resilience is the ability to adapt to stressful life changes and “bounce back” from hardship. It can also be seen as the ability to withstand, address, and adjust to misfortunes, overcome obstacles, and to come back stronger from perceived failure. How you learn to handle hurdles will have a lasting impact on future careers & relationships.
The Bible has many characters who had to endure difficult times. However, many of them were able to bounce back from the adversity they faced. Their faith in God remained true and allowed them to seek strength when theirs was depleting. For example, in the Old Testament, Job demonstrated great resilience, and God honoured him for it.
After losing everything, Job was in great agony of soul and body, yet he refused to curse the Lord or give up: “In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing” (Job 1:22). Later, when the suffering intensified, Job’s wife counselled him to “curse God and die!” (Job 2:9), but Job would not even consider such a thing
Despite his suffering, Job knew that God was in control, and that knowledge helped him maintain resilience instead of giving in to defeat. His faith resulted in Godly resilience, which enables us to be undeterred from our mission, regardless of the opposition.
What helps us stay the course when everything seems to be going wrong? The Bible tells us in Romans 8:28, “…we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” This verse assures us not to lose sight of the bigger picture. Even when it does not feel like it, God is still in control.
To help you keep the words of Romans 8:28 in your heart, here are five key things you can apply today.
Resilient people have the ability to manage and regulate their emotions effectively. They are aware of their feelings, acknowledge them without being overwhelmed, and can respond to them in a constructive manner. Emotional regulation helps people cope with stress, maintain a positive mindset, and make rational decisions during challenging times. How does someone get to a point where they can do all this?
In Philippians 4:6-7, we are told, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” On your own it may seem impossible. However, when you lay your burdens on God, you can access His perfect peace
Resilient people tend to have an optimistic outlook and a positive mindset. They focus on possibilities and opportunities rather than dwelling on problems or negative outcomes. Optimism helps people stay motivated, find solutions for challenges, and maintain a hopeful perspective during difficult times. How do you stay positive?
Paul tells us in Philippians 4:8: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.
Resilience involves identifying problems, analysing them, and developing effective strategies to overcome them. Resilient people possess strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. They are resourceful, adaptable, and capable of thinking critically and creatively to find solutions. Knowing this, is there any other source of wisdom except God? Proverbs 2:6 states: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
Building and maintaining a strong support network is crucial for resilience. Resilient people can reach out for support when needed and foster healthy relationships with others. Social support provides emotional comfort, guidance, and practical assistance during challenging times, which helps people cope and recover more effectively. Scripture in Galatians 6:2 reminds us that we are to help carry each other’s burdens to fulfil our duty as Christians. Furthermore, James 5:16 encourages us: “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” Find such spaces for yourselves, whether it is in church, Bible study or any Christian group.
Resilience requires taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Resilient people prioritize self-care and engage in activities that promote their well-being. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing relaxation techniques, getting enough rest, engaging in hobbies, and seeking help as needed. In Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV), Jesus encourages us to seek Him and find rest for those who are weary and burdened.
Even as we observe these things, commit your plans to God and allow Him to be in control. Memorize, meditate on and live Proverbs 3:5–6; “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.”
Written by Nicholas Shiateya.
