Day 6: Building Resilience through Faith
Turning trials into growth opportunities
1/18/20254 min read
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
– James 1:2-4 (NIV)
Reflection
Let’s be honest—when life gets tough, “consider it pure joy” might sound like the last thing we want to hear, and in the middle of trials, it can even feel impossible. Trials are heavy, draining, and sometimes overwhelming, yet Bro. James is challenging us to look at them through a different lens, not as obstacles to dread but as opportunities to grow stronger, to build resilience, and to deepen our faith.
Years ago, a friend of mine went through a season where it felt like everything was going wrong. He was overwhelmed by one trial after another, and in sheer frustration, he asked, “Can it get any worse for anyone?” I could see the discouragement in his eyes and knew he was at a breaking point. I tried to encourage him, but the weight of his circumstances was undeniably heavy. These are the kinds of moments James talks about—when life feels unbearable, and yet we are called to persevere, not because it’s easy, but because God is at work even in the difficulty.
The Living Bible captures this beautifully:
"For when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete."
This passage doesn’t promise that resilience will come easily or that trials will feel good. Instead, it points to the refining work God does in us through challenges. It reminds me of working out—when you first start lifting weights, even the lightest ones can leave your muscles sore for days, but if you keep going, over time, your body grows stronger and what once felt impossible becomes manageable. That’s what building resilience through faith looks like: a slow, steady strengthening that prepares you for the road ahead.
The word “testing” in James 1:3 comes from the Greek word dokimion, which means “proofing” or “proving.” This makes me think of baking bread—how yeast needs to be proofed, dough needs to be kneaded, and time must be given for it to rise before it’s ready to be baked. Every step is essential, and while it requires patience, the end result is worth the wait. In the same way, God allows us to go through challenges not to harm us but to refine us, to strengthen our faith, and to prepare us for what’s to come.
How to Build Resilience through Faith
Lean Completely on God:
When trials come, we are often tempted to rely on our own strength, but true resilience comes when we surrender fully to God. Spend time in His presence, meditating on Scripture, and allowing His promises to shape your perspective. Psalm 46:1 reminds us that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” The more we draw from His strength, the less we feel the need to carry the burden alone.
Cultivate Gratitude:
Even in difficult seasons, there’s always something to be thankful for, no matter how small it may seem. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s wrong to what’s still good. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring our requests to God with thanksgiving, and in return, His peace will guard our hearts and minds. Whether it’s the support of a loved one, a small victory, or simply the fact that you woke up today, acknowledging God’s blessings can be a source of strength.
Surround Yourself with Supportive People:
The people we surround ourselves with play a crucial role in how we handle challenges. Seek out friends, mentors, and faith communities who can encourage you, pray with you, and remind you of God’s truth. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” and this sharpening happens when we allow others to walk with us through our struggles.
Take Care of Your Body and Mind:
Resilience isn’t just spiritual; it’s holistic. Taking care of your physical and mental health can make a significant difference in how you face challenges. Good sleep, a healthy diet, positive and meaningful engagements (such and reading), and regular exercise can give you the clarity and energy needed to persevere. Remember, your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and stewarding it well is part of honoring God.
Look for Meaning in Adversity:
When things feels overwhelming, ask yourself, “What is God teaching me in this season?” James tells us to “consider it pure joy” not because the pain itself is joyful but because trials are opportunities for growth. Every difficulty has the potential to teach us something new, refine our character, and draw us closer to God.
Trust in God’s Goodness:
Sometimes, we won’t see the full picture of what God is doing until much later, and that’s okay. Resilience is rooted in trusting that God is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Even when the road is hard, we can rest in the assurance that He is with us, shaping us into the people He created us to be.
Building resilience doesn’t mean we won’t feel the weight of our struggles or the pain of our trials. It means choosing to trust that God is doing something greater, even when we don’t fully understand. Like a potter shaping clay, He uses every challenge to mould us into vessels of His purpose and glory. So, the next time you face a difficulty, remind yourself that you are not alone. God is with you, strengthening you, and preparing you for what’s ahead. With Him, you are being made mature, complete, and ready for every good work.
Reflect on a current trial you’re facing. Write down one way you can shift your perspective to focus on growth rather than frustration.
Spend time in prayer, asking God to show you how He’s working in this season of your life.
Father, thank You for the trials that shape me and build my faith. Help me to see challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to grow closer to You. Teach me to lean on Your strength, to trust in Your goodness, and to find joy in the process of being refined. Let my heart be filled with peace and hope as I walk through this journey of life with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.