Resilient by the Spirit

Feb 18, 2024    Pastor Josh

Christian resilience isn't a byproduct of our own strength, determination, or intellectual prowess. Resilience is the fruit of learning to live life in alignment with the Holy Spirit.


In 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, Paul points to the reality that true wisdom and maturity in Christ are not attainable through human effort or reasoning. Instead, they are a gift that originates from and are empowered by the Holy Spirit. This wisdom transcends human understanding, revealing the deep truths of God. This Spirit-fueled insight also unveils the powerful promises made to those who love Him.


Paul articulates that this wisdom is not static but dynamic, leading us into a life marked by 'Spirit-Fueled Insight,' 'Powerful Promises,' and 'Driven Discernment.' These elements are not isolated but interconnected, each one contributing to our capacity for resilience. 'Spirit-Fueled Insight' opens our eyes to see as God sees, 'Powerful Promises' anchor our souls in hope and certainty, and 'Driven Discernment' guides our steps according to the mind of Christ. Together, they form a framework for navigating life's challenges, not as those who merely endure but as those who thrive, continually being shaped into the likeness of Christ.


This process of living by the Spirit challenges us to release our reliance on worldly wisdom and to embrace the paradoxical wisdom of the cross. It invites us into a deeper dependence on the Holy Spirit to reveal, guide, and sustain us. As we do, we discover that resilience in the Christian life is not about bracing ourselves against the storms but about being so rooted in the truth, promises, and discernment given by the Spirit that we can move through any trial with confidence in God’s sovereignty and goodness.