Connected to Thrive
September 18, 2018
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:3-5 NLT
Resilience is important for living a meaningful life. Well, yes, of course, you’re thinking. I’ve got that. But what IS it? Do some people just come by it naturally, or can anyone get it?
Resilience has been studied since the 1970s. Dr. Brené Brown defines resilience as the ability to overcome adversity, and lists several factors research shows help make people resilient, such as having problem-solving skills, seeking help, believing in one’s ability to cope, and being connected to and supported by others, such as family and friends. Dr. Brown adds to these the practice of spirituality, compassion, courage, and the ability to be vulnerable, which is to understand and embrace one’s pain in the face of society’s messages of not being enough. According to her, the ability to be vulnerable and to have compassion for others’ vulnerability is a key element of being resilient and living a meaningful life; what she calls wholehearted living. She assures us these abilities may be more natural for some, but they can certainly be learned and cultivated.
We can learn to be more resilient from those who are more resilient than we are. Paul has taught centuries of people about rejoicing in hardship in Romans 5 because “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” This passage reeks with resilience. There is a purpose and a positive end-result for suffering. God loves us and is guiding the process. Further, the hope of heaven helps us persevere (Romans 8:18). Paul’s resilience peaks, knowing that God’s love for him gives him the certain hope of spending eternity with Him.
Ultimately my resilience is built on my connectedness to Christ who gives me purpose and meaning, and to His people who walk with me.
- Who exhibits resilience through faith, in my circle of friends? What can I learn from them?
- Spend time today in the Word and prayer, building your faith on His promises.