“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”~ 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (KJV)
Happy New Month, beloved of God! It is with great joy and gratitude that we are witnessing the dawn of another month and stepping into the second half of the year. What a marvelous God we serve, who continues to pour out His ever-sufficient grace and mercy. May God perfect all that concerns you and your family in Jesus’ mighty name.
The scripture above may resonate deeply with many of us. It beautifully highlights the power of resilience in the life of a believer. But what exactly is resilience?
Resilience is the ability to cope with and recover from setbacks. It is the capacity to bounce back from adversity, adjust to misfortune, and remain steadfast through challenges. A person who remains calm and composed in the face of disaster demonstrates resilience. It is the strength to draw upon available resources, seek help when necessary, and find ways to manage whatever difficulty one faces.
You may have gone through turbulent times, particularly in the first half of this year. Or perhaps you’re facing challenges right now. Whatever the case, know this: the fact that you are still standing today is a testimony to God’s mercy and faithfulness. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, you have been endowed with the Power of Resilience.
Apostle Paul beautifully describes the strength of resilience in the life of a believer, and many of us can relate:
- Troubled, but not distressed – Resilience allows you to go through troubles without being overwhelmed by them. It’s the power of the Holy Spirit within us that helps us remain unshaken.
- Perplexed, but not in despair – Life may have left you confused or uncertain. But resilience ensures that confusion does not lead to hopelessness.
- Persecuted, but not forsaken – Persecution comes in many forms, leaving some feeling abandoned. Yet, the fact that you are still standing is a testimony of resilience and God’s faithfulness.
- Cast down, but not destroyed – As the psalmist said, “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance” (Psalm 42:5). Resilience in God helps us rise even when we are cast down.
“The key to life is resilience… We will always be knocked down. It’s the getting up that counts.” ~ Dominique Browning
As we move into this new month and the second half of the year, I charge you to build your resilience. There is an old saying: “Nothing great is ever achieved without enthusiasm, and you cannot make an omelet without breaking eggs.” No matter what you face, do not allow yourself to be distressed, to despair, to be perplexed, or to be destroyed. Instead, remain resilient!
The power of resilience will not only strengthen your spiritual stamina but will also benefit your mental health. As you continue in your journey for the second half of this year, let us commit to building resilience in every area of our lives—spiritual resilience, physical resilience, financial resilience, and mental resilience. This can be achieved through the study of God’s Word, prayer, meditation, and fellowship with one another. In case you haven’t accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, please do so now. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that we can endure to the end and make full proof of our ministries.
“And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” ~ Matthew 10:22 (KJV)
Once again, happy new month! May God perfect all that concerns you and yours in Jesus’ mighty name.
Pastor Joseph