Resiliency

Scott Peck says, "It is in meeting and solving problems that we grow mentally and spiritually. Wise people learn not

to dread, but to welcome the pain of problems." Sociologists who study resiliency (the ability to bounce back) tell us that people handle trauma in two ways: they either give up because they are afraid, or they grow up by developing the capacity to handle it.

Those who give up act like victims, while those who grow up are resilient people who:

1) assert control and take charge of their lives

2) refuse to relinquish their values

3) find God's purpose in the problem

4) refocus on their goal.

During their famous expedition, Lewis and Clark faced incredible hardships. On reaching the Missouri River they thought the worst was over - then they saw the Rockies! Instead of the easy ride downstream they had expected, they faced their biggest challenge - go back or start climbing. They started climbing and the rest is history. Looking back, they realized it was conquering the Missouri River that gave them the confidence they needed for what they faced later.

Tony Evans says, "Challenge is a dragon with a gift in its mouth. Tame the dragon and the gift is yours". Quitting is always simpler than enduring. It is always easier to stop for a doughnut than run another lap, but it produces a pattern that's hard to break. So today if you're thinking, "This relationship's too hard, I want out", or, "This class isn't what

I expected", remember, you develop resiliency by remaining faithful in situations you don't like and can't change.

Today, don't give up! There awaits "... great honor to those who endure."

(c)2005 Timothy L. Hudson, UGA Christian Campus Fellowship