During this Covid 19 outbreak, a time of uncertainty and economic hardship, it is easy to become fearful, anxious and extra emotional. However, the Word of God says in Psalms 32 vs. 7, You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. We also see in 2 Timothy 1 vs. 7, For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind.
Resilience is defined as the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties. Resilience is an important mechanism that can protect us from being overwhelmed. Resilience can help us to gain and maintain balance as well. Studies have shown that the biggest factor in overcoming difficult times is Resilience. Some call it perseverance, but God’s Word says in Philippians 4 vs. 13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
I’ve put together some informative ideas on how to be resilience in trying times while maintaining a healthy mental awareness. These ideas address what happens in the soul of mankind, our mind, will and emotions. I like to say this is our chooser, where we make decisions and choices. You have to do the work to get the results. There are no quick fixes.
1. Focus on what you can control. Not only during the Covid 19 crisis but at all times. The only thing you can control is you. You are in control of what you say and do. That is why it is so important to be in God’s Word daily. Renew your mind with the truth of God’s Word. Romans 12 vs. 2 says, And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
2. Practice acceptance of self. Think about how you view yourself. Is your view in line with how God views you? God does not make junk. You are made in His image. You have God’s DNA. You are a child of the King of Kings. You are called to be kings and priests unto your God and Father. Jesus paid a precious price for you so stop judging yourself and accept all of you, unconditionally. This requires self compassion. You have God’s compassion for others, have self kindness toward yourself.
3. Connect and communicate. Relationships are one our most basic human needs. Communicate with God and communicate with family. Keep communication lines open. Don’t pull away from people but reach out and connect with others. During this pandemic, we have been quarantined but don’t stay in a mindset of isolation. Your pastor, your church family or your biological family is only a phone call away. Connecting with others and communicating what you are experiencing helps you to release anxiety and discouragement.
4. Reframe, Reframe, Reframe. Reframing is the ability to alter your view about a negative situation. Reframing allows you to recognize and appreciate the positive aspects of a situation. We can’t change the fact that this pandemic happened, but we can pray for wisdom to see it from a different perspective. Here is an example of reframing: We’ve been isolated at home and unable to do what was normal. However, the Body of Christ has drawn closer to God and have sought His face and wisdom like never before. According to Romans 8 vs. 28, And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Look past this present situation and imagine the future improved and flourishing. Reframing teaches us to acknowledge our uncomfortable feelings but chose to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean on our own understanding. Good can come out of suffering as we grow from glory to glory. Don’t blow up , grow up!
5. Stay in the presence of God by being aware that He is always with you. He is a very present help in the time of trouble, Psalms 46 vs. 1.
6. Maintain thankfulness. You’ve heard it said, take time to smell the roses…this is one of the greatest ways to just appreciate what God has made available for us to enjoy. Have an attitude of gratitude.
7. Physical ways. Stay hydrated, exercise, eat well and maintain the proper amount of rest.
8. Avoid negative outlets at all costs. People mask their pain by using alcohol or drugs. It’s like putting a band aid on a wound. Get to the root of the issue. The word of God is health to our flesh. Proverbs 4 vs. 22 They (God’s Words) are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. God is with you saints. Call upon the Lord so you can go forward in “VICTORY.”
Let me quote Robert Schuller, “Tough times never last, but tough people do.”
Christians are not wimps, we are strong in the Lord and the power of His might.
Blessings,
Pastor Vilma Everette
Father’s House Church – Spring Valley CA
Master’s Counseling Psychology
Bachelor’s Behavioral Science
Pupil Personnel School Counseling Credential.