Strength by Default

Ever found yourself exhausted from the constant demand to be strong in the face of life’s trials and adulting responsibilities? You’re not alone. There are moments when the weight feels overwhelming, and yet, being strong seems like the only path forward. The Bible echoes this sentiment, with the phrase “be strong” appearing approximately 26 times, emphasizing the significance of this quality in our lives.

I know it’s the new year and we are all hyped up to start afresh, set new goals and conquer the world! However, I think it’s important that as we do that, we also gear up to tackle whatever challenges life throws our way. To stay true to ourselves, let’s focus on getting stronger, so we can handle anything that comes our way.

Strength, whether physical, mental, or emotional, is the ability to endure, persevere, and maintain inner fortitude in the face of difficulties. It’s not a choice we make but a demand life places upon us during its unpredictable ups and downs.

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all recipe, here are some key ingredients that contribute to developing strength:

Self-awareness

Self-awareness is a profound journey, an exploration into the depths of our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. The more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to navigate the intricate landscape of our emotions. Beyond mere introspection, possessing self-knowledge and engaging in self-reflection grants us insights into the far-reaching impact of our actions on those around us.

The awareness of our identity in Christ is our greatest strength. Through the lens of self-awareness, we gain the potential to draw closer to God, aligning ourselves with His intentions for our lives. As the Bible beautifully asserts in 1 John 3:1 NLT, we are reminded of the profound love our Father has for us, calling us His children. See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. We are daughters and sons of the Most High King, never forget that!

Resilience

Resilience, a compelling attribute, involves not just bouncing back from challenges but emerging with newfound strength and adaptability. It is the art of navigating through life’s tumultuous seas, providing us with the best chance to overcome obstacles and work through problems. The Word says Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again…(Proverbs 24:16). As I explore this fascinating term, I recognize its nuanced layers and its capacity to go beyond mere endurance. It’s not merely about standing firm against pressure but about the transformative ability to evolve in the face of ever-changing circumstances. Resilience is the key to not only weathering the storms but also flourishing in their aftermath.

Cultivate a positive and growth-oriented mindset

Growing means having a positive and open mindset. Instead of just seeing problems, look for solutions and treat challenges as chances to get better. Believe in yourself to overcome obstacles. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV)

Physical Health

Physical Health not only impacts our energy levels but also influences our emotional and mental health. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it – Proverbs 4:23 NIV

Purpose

Do you feel like what you do and who you are in the world matters? Do you have a sense that your actions are meaningful, and contribute to or benefit something that you care about? Having a sense of purpose gives meaning to your actions and helps you stay focused and motivated. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do – Ephesians 2:10 NIV. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these – Mark 12:30-31 NIV

Courage

Along the way, we’ll inevitably face obstacles, setbacks, and challenges. But with courage, we can overcome them. Courage is the ability to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation, even in the face of adversity. This doesn’t mean that you don’t get scared, however, you confront fears despite feeling scared. Our courage comes from God as Ephesians 6:10–18 says, Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 

Continuous learning

Learning is essential to our existence. Just like food nourishes our bodies, information and continued learning nourishes our minds. Strong continuous learning skills are required to successfully adapt to changing work and life demands. For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 8:11 NIV

Gratitude

Lastly, gratitude allows us to appreciate the positive aspects of our lives. Gratitude fosters a positive outlook and resilience in the face of difficulties. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The journey of strength is not a solitary path but a transformative odyssey shaped by trials and challenges. In the pursuit of resilience, the wisdom found in James 1:2-6 NIV resonates profoundly. It encourages us to consider trials as opportunities for joy, understanding that through them, our faith is tested and perseverance is cultivated. The verse underscores the significance of letting perseverance run its course, as it molds us into mature and complete individuals. The process of enduring trials is likened to seeking wisdom, emphasizing the importance of turning to God for guidance. In this divine exchange, believers are urged to approach with unwavering faith, trusting that God generously imparts wisdom to those who seek it.