Life often throws unexpected challenges in our way. Whether it’s a health issue, a career setback, or a broken relationship, we all experience moments that knock us down. These curveballs can leave us feeling discouraged. In the Bible, Mary was thrown a curveball that was entirely out of her control. Mary had to trust that God’s plan was bigger than her fears. She surrendered her situation to God, knowing that his purpose was for good, even when it didn’t make sense at the moment.
The good news is that the Bible is filled with stories of people who bounced back after facing failure, disappointment, or hardship. So, today if you are feeling knocked down, take heart because the same God who restored people throughout Biblical times is a present God and can restore you in this present time.
The Apostle Paul also demonstrated great resilience. When resilient people hit rock bottom, they don’t give up—they bounce back. Paul was such a person. He reminds us that while we may often suffer, we are never crushed. Even when we don’t know what to do, we never give up. In times of trouble, God is with us, and when we are knocked down, we get up again.
The Bible teaches that people who bounce back from ordeals are defined by their resilience and faith. It highlights the fact that though we might suffer and fall, we will rise again. Even a righteous person sometimes stumbles, but they get back up. Setbacks don’t define who you are, but how you rise from a fall does.
The prophet Job lost everything and suffered terribly, but he maintained his faith and never gave up his relationship with God. In time, God restored Job’s life and blessed him with four times more wealth than he had lost. We should choose to get up rather than stay down after failure. Dust yourself off and keep moving forward because God has a plan for you.
In this New Year, I encourage you to trust God with your response to life’s trials. You can control your reaction to adversity by turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones. So, lean on God and rely on his promises and strength, not just your own understanding. Be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
Dr. Walter Ghosten
