Faith That Lasts
How to stay resilient in your faith journey.
Hi friends! I’m Pastor Chris and I write this newsletter. If you’re needing some encouragement in your walk with Christ, then hop on the bus and subscribe.
Have you ever had a hard week, or month, or year? Most of us have.
Personally, I’ve had a challenging few weeks.
We had a week-long Vacation Bible School at the church, hosting nearly 150 kids and leaders. The highlight? About 50 kids made decisions for Christ. This was the high point of my week.
In other news, my second job has been both amazing and challenging. I've had to pass off two main client contracts to other people, which is a bit disheartening. I'm unsure how this change will impact our finances.
Then, just this Sunday, we were hit with an unexpected bill that could significantly impact our finances. And the list goes on. Layer upon layer.
There are so many things in flux right now. It can be hard to find the resilience to keep fighting. Some days I’m on top of the mountain, and other days, I can’t seem to do anything right.
When I think about resilience, I’m reminded of this verse from Psalm 121:1-3:
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.”
Where do I find the strength to keep going? My relationship with God.
Faith gives me resilience. It's my anchor in the storm, the steady hand that pulls me up when I'm at my lowest. When everything around me feels like it's collapsing, it's my faith that reminds me of a greater purpose, a divine plan that I might not fully understand. I think of the countless times I've been on my knees, praying for strength, and how those prayers have been answered in ways I never expected.
It's this unwavering belief in God's presence and His promises that gives me the courage to face each day, no matter how tough it gets. Faith can do the same for you, offering hope and strength to navigate life's toughest moments.
One powerful example of resilience in scripture is the story of Joseph. Despite facing numerous hardships, Joseph remained faithful and resilient. Joseph's journey began with a dream that he would one day rule over his brothers, which sparked jealousy and hatred among them. In Genesis 37:23-24 (ESV), it says, "So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the robe of many colors that he wore. And they took him and threw him into a pit. The pit was empty; there was no water in it."
His brothers sold him into slavery, and he was taken to Egypt.
Even in Egypt, Joseph faced trials. He was falsely accused by Potiphar's wife and thrown into prison. However, Joseph’s resilience and faith in God never wavered. Genesis 39:21 (ESV) says, "But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison."
Despite his circumstances, Joseph rose to a position of trust and responsibility within the prison. Eventually, he interpreted Pharaoh's dreams, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. His wisdom and faithfulness led to his appointment as the second most powerful man in Egypt.
Years later, during the famine, Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt seeking food. They did not recognize him, but Joseph chose to reveal himself and extend forgiveness. Genesis 50:20 (ESV) captures Joseph’s perspective: "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." Joseph’s resilience, rooted in his unwavering faith, not only transformed his life but also saved many others. His story is a profound testament to the power of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
How can we build resilience in our faith?
1. Trust in God’s plan and His promises
When we place our faith in God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand our circumstances. This trust acts as a bedrock for our lives, giving us the confidence to face challenges knowing that God is in control. It allows us to see beyond the immediate struggles and focus on the eternal hope we have in Christ. By leaning on God’s promises, we find the strength to persevere through trials, knowing that He is working all things for our good.
2. Pray regularly
Regular communication with God strengthens our spirit and helps us find peace. Prayer is a powerful tool for building resilience because it connects us directly with God. Through prayer, we can pour out our hearts, express our fears, and seek His guidance. This ongoing dialogue with God helps to center us, providing clarity and comfort when we are overwhelmed. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that we have a heavenly Father who cares deeply for us. By consistently turning to God in prayer, we cultivate a resilient spirit that can withstand life's storms.
3. Engage with God’s Word
The Bible is a rich source of strength and resilience for believers. By studying scripture, we immerse ourselves in God’s truth, gaining insights that can help us navigate life's challenges. The stories of faith, perseverance, and God’s faithfulness found in the Bible serve as powerful reminders that we can rely on Him in all circumstances. Regular engagement with the Word equips us with the knowledge and promises of God, fortifying our hearts and minds against discouragement and despair.
4. Find a faith community
Surrounding ourselves with other believers provides a network of support that is crucial for resilience. In a faith community, we find people who can pray with us, offer encouragement, and hold us accountable. These relationships remind us that we are not alone in our struggles and that others are walking alongside us. The shared experiences and wisdom within a community can provide comfort and guidance, helping us to stay strong and resilient in our faith journey.
5. Cultivate a thankful heart
Gratitude shifts our perspective from what we lack to what we have, fostering a positive and resilient mindset. By regularly practicing thankfulness, we train our minds to recognize and appreciate the blessings in our lives, even amidst difficulties. This attitude of gratitude can transform our outlook, making us more resilient by focusing on God’s provision and goodness. It helps us to see His hand at work in our lives, giving us hope and strength to face whatever comes our way.
Building resilience as a believer is not just about enduring hardships but thriving despite them. When we trust in God's plan, maintain a consistent prayer life, engage with His Word, surround ourselves with a supportive faith community, and cultivate a heart of gratitude, we lay a strong foundation for resilience. Each of these practices helps us to anchor our lives in God’s unchanging promises, equipping us to face life’s challenges with confidence and hope.
I invite you to reflect on your own experiences. How have you seen resilience at work in your life? What practices have helped you stay strong in your faith during tough times? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below. Let's encourage one another and build a community of resilient believers, rooted in the love and faithfulness of God.