Building Resilience

Two Sundays ago, we explored how trauma affects each of us differently based on our past experiences, who stands with us in those moments, and our ability to bounce back.

Trauma is a reality that touches every life, though it impacts each of us differently. Our experiences, the presence or absence of support, and our personal resilience all shape how we respond to hardship. Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest, promising gentleness and understanding. This invitation is not just for comfort, but for transformation—He calls us to learn from Him, to find rest for our souls, and to become people who can both receive and offer healing.

Prior experiences can sensitize us to future pain, as seen in the way repeated exposure to storms or violence can leave us anxious or fearful. Yet, the presence of others during these moments can make all the difference. Scripture calls us to bear one another’s burdens, to look to the interests of others, and to love as Jesus loved. When we show up for each other, we help prevent pain from becoming trauma, and we fulfill the law of Christ.

But what if no one is there? There is still hope. Resilience—the ability to bounce back after being stretched thin—can be built by anyone. Like a muscle, it grows through intentional effort. Building resilience means strengthening mind, body, and spirit. For the mind, we are called to focus on what is true, noble, and lovely, to seek out gratitude, laughter, and kindness, and to process our emotions in healthy ways. For the body, we steward God’s gift through rest, nourishment, and movement, following Jesus’ own example of caring for His physical needs. For the spirit, we nurture our faith through prayer, Scripture, community, and stillness, just as Jesus did.

All three pillars—mind, body, and spirit—work together. When we care for ourselves as Jesus taught, we are better equipped to love our neighbors and to face whatever comes. Today, the invitation is to begin building your own plan for resilience, practicing new habits that strengthen you in every area.

Key Takeaways From Sunday June 8

– Trauma is deeply personal and shaped by our unique histories, the support we receive, and our resilience. What is overwhelming for one may not be for another, and our past experiences can sensitize us to future pain. Recognizing this helps us approach both ourselves and others with compassion and patience, understanding that healing is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

– The presence of others during hardship can be the difference between a painful event and lasting trauma. Scripture calls us to bear one another’s burdens and to look to the interests of others, following Jesus’ example of compassionate presence. When we show up for each other, we become agents of God’s healing, helping to transform fear into hope.

– Resilience is not the absence of pain, but the capacity to recover and grow through it. It is built intentionally, like a muscle, by strengthening our minds, bodies, and spirits. This process is unique for each person, but it always involves choosing hope, practicing gratitude, and seeking growth even in adversity.

– Building a resilient mind means intentionally focusing on what is good, true, and beautiful, even when negativity surrounds us. Practices like gratitude journaling, laughter, and self-kindness help reframe our perspective and foster hope. Jesus modeled this mindset by seeking solitude, focusing on the good in others, and entrusting His hardships to God.

– Spiritual resilience is cultivated through consistent, authentic connection with God—through prayer, Scripture, community, and rest. Jesus demonstrated the importance of withdrawing for prayer, engaging with Scripture, and being part of a faith community. When we nurture our spirits, we are strengthened to face life’s challenges and to be present for others in their pain.

Key Scriptures

Matthew 11:28-29
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Questions for Reflection & Application

The sermon encouraged us to build resilience in mind, body, and spirit. Which of these three areas do you feel strongest in right now, and which one needs the most attention? What is one small step you could take this week to strengthen the area that needs it?

When you face stress or hardship, do you tend to try to handle it alone, or do you reach out for support? What might help you be more open to receiving help from others or from God?

Jesus modeled caring for mind, body, and spirit. What are some ways He did this?

Rev Hess challenged everyone to practice something new each day to build resilience. What is one new habit or practice you want to try this week? How will you keep track of how it affects you?