Building resiliance in tough times.

I was reading today how Japan has now 'slipped into recession' due to a few factors such as population decline, competitiveness slowing and not keeping up with technology. When we are presented with the hard facts whether it is about a country's woes, bills on the table, relationship problems or productiveness in our workplace, it is difficult to keep upbeat and full of joy. This is not a new dilemma, but the question remains how do we build resiliance in tough times?

Jesus, through the scriptures practised resiliance in a few ways. He prayed constantly in isolation, meditating with the Father, He spent time among His disciples and colloborated with them, sharing their lives, and tirelessly served among His people, all with a sense of contentment and love. Love ties it all together, and when we dwell in unity with God, our faith grows and instead of problems we have endless possibilities ahead of us.

When we change our perspectives from what is outward to what God says, everything shifts. We still have the problems to deal with, but we know that the fight is with the enemy, but God reminds us to trust in Him, have faith and let Him deal with it in His time. Living in contentment not only benefits us, but shines a lot to others who struggle to deal with their own tough times.

As for Japan, all we can do is pray that they can be renewed and that they know God, because with faith and unity, they have immense potential for His Kingdom. As David said in Psalms "With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall." (Psalms 18:29). Nothing is too hard for God and with Him we can be ready for anything. When we live like this our joy is complete with Jesus alone.