Kelly will is one of the adult volunteer riders for the the Resiliency Ride coming up this June...
As Kelly mentions, there will be challenges on the Resiliency Ride, but that’s what resiliency is all about. And challenges build character…
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12
It’s often said a person’s true character is revealed in the face of adversity. Their attitude toward the trial and their response, or how they handle it, reveals who they truly are. Strong character and resilience are closely intertwined. Those who possess both know how to deal with adversity and maintain a positive disposition. They don’t complain. They don’t give up. They push. They succeed.
As we learned in our first devotion, Resiliency is defined as the ability to cope with whatever life throws at you. When knocked down and out by challenges, those resilient return stronger and more steadfast than ever. Their character – the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual – is the key to their strength.
Paul’s approach to preaching the gospel is one of many examples of resiliency in the Bible. After his life-altering encounter with Jesus in Acts 9, the popular Jewish religious leader became a radical Christian to the disenchantment of many. Unhappy with his message, his enemies beat, stoned, criticized, jailed and nearly killed him several times.
One great example of his resiliency is when he was in Lystra, in Asia Minor, he was stoned, dragged out of the city, and left for dead. Once his enemies disbanded, Paul simply got up and returned to the city. His work to tell others about Jesus continued unabated. Godly resilience produces character that enables us to be undeterred, regardless of the opposition. Paul wrote in Romans 5:4: “endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
Another who demonstrated great character in his resiliency is Job. Job lost everything – his wealth, health and even his family. Job experienced great agony deep within in his body and soul. Yet, he refused to turn His back on God or give up. Despite his relentless suffering, he knew that God was in control. This allowed Job to endure. His endurance produced character and his character hope. He held tight to his faith. In the end, his faith was met with great reward.
Our character will influence our resilience and our resilience will influence our character. Work your character and resilience to your advantage. Be positive. Approach adversity head on. Don’t complain. Don’t give up. Push.
To learn more about the Resiliency Ride and how you can take part in the journey, visit www.YRAdventure.com.