10 Ways to Become Steady in the Storms: Embracing Your Resiliency during Uncertainty.

I normally end most if not all of sessions with be steady in the storm. This statement comes from a deep place, a place where my soul in anchored in knowing that things look dire right now but every situation we live through is here to grow up. I know because I have had my fair share of calamities, set backs and failure but somehow I'm still standing. To say I am grateful is an understatement.

The definitive lesson is that you have to keep going when you have a nickel and nail in your pocket and you can only afford a few diapers and not the whole pack. You have to keep going when there is more month than money and you car leaks more oil than you can ever afford. You keep going when you can't quite figure out what's your next move or how to get there. You keep going when no one is there to say it going to be okay and you feel you're out in the cold alone, determined not to let it all get in you head and take you under.

The options are endless and timing does not have to be perfect.

The Bible said no weapon formed against me will prosper. The weapons will form but they will not prosper. There will be things that will evoke fear but oftentimes things that frightened us are amplified in our head and honestly never happen the way we envision. I believe yes we will fail, relationships will have ebbs and flows, we will lose jobs and even love ones. But again all of these are events are here to teach us vital lessons about how to live and how to become more resilient and steadfast people for future storms

After each session, I say Be steady in the storm because for each person I sit with I have respect for their tenacity; their courage and ability to trust the process and be vulnerable about how the storms are raging in their life. To say be steady in the storm to not just a hip statement but it my way of staying I heard you and hang in there because you got this and everything will work itself out in the end and if it does not work itself the lesson continues and you have not made it to the end. Strap in and know you are not riding this storm alone, I'm right there with you, ten toes down we'll weather the storm together. Be steady in the storm.

My goal is to ensure you never forget you are human.

 Embracing Resilience

Resilience is the remarkable ability to bounce back from adversity, adapt, and grow stronger despite life's challenges. It isn't about avoiding difficulties but facing them with courage and determination. Here are some key aspects of resilience:

Developing a Positive Mindset: Resilient individuals maintain a positive outlook even in tough times. They focus on solutions rather than problems and believe in their ability to overcome challenges.

• Example: When faced with a job loss, a resilient person sees it as an opportunity to explore new career paths or develop new skills.

Cultivating Inner Strength: Inner strength comes from knowing oneself and drawing upon personal values and beliefs. It involves self-awareness and emotional regulation.

• Example: Practicing mindfulness and self-reflection can help build inner strength and resilience.

Building Support Networks: Resilience is often bolstered by strong social connections. Support from friends, family, and community provides encouragement and practical assistance.

• Example: Leaning on a supportive friend or family member during a difficult time can make a significant difference.

Embracing Change and Flexibility: Resilient individuals are adaptable and open to change. They understand that flexibility is essential for navigating life's uncertainties.

• Example: Adapting to new circumstances, such as relocating to a new city, with an open mind and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.

A mustard seed of faith and little hope.

 Biblical References and Faith

The Bible offers numerous examples and teachings on resilience and faith, providing guidance and inspiration for those facing life's storms. Here are some key biblical references that highlight the importance of trusting in God's strength and wisdom:

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Insight: This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. God's presence and support are constant, offering us the strength we need to persevere.

Philippians 4:13 (NIV): "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Insight: This verse emphasizes that our strength comes from God. With faith, we can overcome any challenge because God empowers us.

James 1:2-4 (NIV): "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."

Insight: Trials are opportunities for growth and maturity. By embracing challenges with a joyful heart, we allow our faith to deepen and our resilience to strengthen.

Psalm 46:1-3 (NIV): "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging."

Insight: In times of turmoil, God is our refuge. His steadfast presence provides comfort and assurance, allowing us to face difficulties with courage.

Romans 5:3-5 (NIV): "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."

Insight: This passage highlights the transformative power of suffering. Through trials, we develop perseverance, character, and hope, which are essential for resilience.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV): "But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Insight: This verse teaches us to embrace our weaknesses and difficulties, as they allow God's power to manifest in our lives. Our struggles can lead to greater reliance on God's strength.

Keep moving

 Practical Steps to Remain Steady

Combining resilience with faith can empower us to remain steady during life's storms. Here are some practical steps to help you stay strong and encouraged:

Daily Prayer and Meditation: Spend time in prayer and meditation to connect with God, seek guidance, and find peace.

Example: Start each day with a prayer, asking for strength and wisdom to navigate the challenges ahead.

Scripture Reading and Reflection: Regularly read and reflect on biblical passages that offer encouragement and hope.

Example: Keep a journal to jot down meaningful verses and reflect on their relevance to your current situation.

Gratitude Practice: Cultivate gratitude by acknowledging the blessings in your life, even during difficult times.

Example: Keep a gratitude journal where you write down three things you're thankful for each day.

Positive Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reinforce your faith and resilience.

Example: Repeat affirmations such as "I am strong through God's grace" or "I trust in God's plan for my life."

Seek Support from Your Community: Lean on your faith community for support, encouragement, and fellowship.

Example: Join a Bible study group or prayer circle to connect with others who share your faith and can offer support.

Embrace Self-Care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental health to build resilience.

Example: Engage in regular exercise, eat nutritious meals, and practice relaxation techniques to maintain overall well-being.

Maintain a Sense of Purpose: Focus on activities and goals that give your life meaning and direction.

Example: Volunteer for causes you care about or set personal goals that align with your values and passions.

Conclusion

Being steady in the storms of life requires resilience, faith, and a strong connection to God. By developing a positive mindset, cultivating inner strength, building support networks, and embracing change, we can navigate life's challenges with courage and determination. The Bible provides timeless wisdom and encouragement, reminding us that God is our refuge and strength.

Embrace the storms as opportunities for growth, trusting in God's unwavering support. With resilience and faith, we can remain steadfast and find peace amidst life's uncertainties.

References:

- The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV)

- American Psychological Association. (2020). Building Your Resilience. Retrieved from [APA](https://www.apa.org)

- Masten, A. S. (2001). Ordinary Magic: Resilience Processes in Development. American Psychologist, 56(3), 227-238. doi:10.1037/0003-066X