Merriam Webster defines resiliency as, "an ability to recover from or adjust easily to adversity or change."
This is the reason we have all heard so much about this word lately. Having faced a global pandemic tested how resilient we all have been. How resilient we you been? On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your resiliency right now?
Not only is resiliency important in our physical lives, but it is a vital quality in the spiritual lives. We are all faced with trials and challenges that can test our faith and being able to persevere is essential. Fortunately, we have many examples of resilience in the Bible that we can learn from. These stories inspire us to keep going even in the most difficult of times.
One of the most inspiring examples of resiliency in the Bible is the story of Joseph. Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers, falsely accused of a crime, and thrown into prison for years. Despite all of these setbacks, Joseph remained faithful to God and eventually rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt, saving his family and many others from famine.
The story of Joseph reminds us that even when things seem hopeless, God is always working behind the scenes to bring about good. As Joseph himself says in Genesis 50:20;
"But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive."
God can take even the most difficult and painful circumstances in our lives and use them for good. During the trying times in our life's we need to;
Trust in God's sovereignty: Even when things seem to be going wrong or you're facing difficult circumstances, remember that God is ultimately in control. Trust that He has a plan and a purpose for your life, even if it's not immediately clear to you.
Stay faithful in adversity: Twice in Genesis 39 we learn that the Lord blessed Joseph. Why? I believe it is because Joseph was faithful to Him even in hard situations. Challenges present unique opportunities for growth, learning, and even service of others. Ask God to help you see these opportunities in the difficulties and then make the most of them.
Forgive those who have wronged you: Joseph could have harbored bitterness and resentment toward his brothers, but instead he chose to forgive them and seek reconciliation. If you've been hurt by someone, ask God to give you the strength and grace to forgive them and move forward.
Share your story: Joseph's story of suffering and redemption has inspired countless people over the centuries. Consider how you can share your own story of God's faithfulness and redemption with others.
Another powerful example of resiliency in Scripture is found in the book of Job. Job was a faithful man who faced one trial after another, including the loss of his family, his health and his fortune. Despite all of his suffering, over 30 chapters worth of hardship, Job remained faithful to God and refused to curse Him or turn away from Him. In the end, God rewarded Job's faithfulness by restoring his fortunes and blessing him even more than before. God always rewards faithfulness!
The story of Job reminds us that even in the midst of suffering, we can cling to God and trust in His goodness. As Job says in Job 13:15, "Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him."
Jesus himself is the ultimate example of resilience. He faced rejection, persecution, and ultimately death on the cross, but He never wavered in His love for God or His mission to save humanity. He never faltered from His purpose in showing us the amazing love as seen in the plan of salvation. Through his resurrection, He showed that even death cannot defeat the power of God's love. John 16:33 gives us a beautiful promise of Jesus;
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer,I have overcome the world.”
The Bible inspires us to keep going even in the toughest of times. May we always remember the faithfulness of Joseph, the perseverance of Job, and the love and grace of Jesus as we navigate the ups and downs of life. May we cling to the promises of Scripture as the challenges of life threaten to overwhelm us.