Resiliency
Life often presents us with challenges that seem insurmountable. For many women, these challenges manifest as loss whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a relationship, financial stability, or even a sense of self worth after experiencing trauma. As a survivor of sexual assault who has faced significant financial, emotional, mental and spiritual loss, I understand the weight of these burdens. But I also know that healing and restoration are possible through faith, resilience, and intentional steps toward recovery. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can navigate through loss and emerge victoriously, inspired by Ruth’s story and strengthened by God’s promises.
1. Anchor Yourself in Faith
Faith is the foundation of resilience. In the book of Ruth, we see a woman who chose to leave her homeland and follow her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem, even when it meant stepping into the unknown. Ruth had lost her husband and could have easily returned to her people, but she remained steadfast in her faith, trusting God’s plan for her life.
Scripture Context:
Ruth 1:16 (NIV) says, “But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’”
This verse shows Ruth’s faith and commitment, reminding us that even in loss, choosing to follow God can lead to a path of favor and restoration.
Practical Tips:
Daily Prayer: Set aside time each day to pray and communicate with God. Pour out your heart and invite Him into your healing journey
🙏🏾Meditate on Scripture: Find verses that speak to your situation and meditate on them. Psalm 34:18 (NIV) says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”This truth reminds us that God is near, even in our pain.
🙏🏾Surround Yourself with Faith-Building Community: Seek a support group or a church community that encourages and uplifts you in your faith journey.
Embrace the Process of Letting Go
Letting go is one of the most challenging yet transformative steps in the healing process. Ruth’s decision to leave her homeland and everything familiar represents the act of letting go of the past to embrace God’s future plan. Just as Ruth stepped into the unknown, we may need to release things past pain, negative self perceptions or unhealthy relationships that hold us back.
Scripture Context:
Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV) says, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Letting go allows us to focus on the new opportunities God has prepared for us, trusting that His plans are greater than our past.
Practical Tips:
💕Practice Forgiveness: Forgiveness doesn’t excuse wrongs but releases their hold on you. Write a letter of forgiveness to yourself or others, even if you never send it.
💕Set Boundaries: Protect your healing by setting boundaries with people or situations that trigger emotional pain or hinder your growth.
💕Engage in Prayer for Release: Ask God to help you let go of past hurts. Philippians 4:7 (NIV) says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Allow His peace to guide you.
3. Seek Professional Support and Therapy
While prayer and faith are essential, professional support can be a powerful complement. Therapy provides a safe space to process and release the deep wounds we carry. For me, it was a crucial part of my journey to restoration. Therapy helped me navigate the trauma I endured and gave me tools to cope with emotions and triggers.
Scripture Context:
Proverbs 11:14 (NIV) says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”
This verse highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance, reinforcing that professional support is a valuable part of the healing journey.
Practical Tips: Find a Faith-Based Therapist:
💕Seek a therapist who aligns with your spiritual beliefs and can incorporate faith into your sessions.
💕Commit to Regular Sessions: Consistency is key. Regular therapy sessions help you progress and provide you with coping tools.
💕Journal Your Emotions: Journaling is a powerful way to release emotions between therapy sessions. Write down your thoughts, prayers, and reflections as you process your feelings.
4. Invest in Self-Care and Personal Growth
In moments of loss, it’s easy to neglect ourselves. However, investing in self-care and personal growth is essential for rebuilding and finding your way back to purpose and joy. Ruth wasn’t idle when she arrived in Bethlehem—she actively worked in the fields, showing her perseverance and desire to build a new life.
Scripture Context:
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) says, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Honoring God includes caring for ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Practical Tips:
💕Prioritize Physical Wellness: Exercise, eat nourishing foods, and rest. Physical wellness often correlates with emotional and mental well-being.
💕Engage in Joyful Activities: Reconnect with hobbies that uplift your spirit, whether it’s reading, painting, cooking, or exploring nature.
💕Learn Something New: Enroll in courses, read books, or explore new skills. Growing in knowledge can boost confidence and foster a sense of accomplishment.
5. Hold Onto Hope for Restoration
Ruth’s story reminds us that God is a restorer. When she met Boaz, it was an unexpected blessing that changed her life. She went from a place of hardship to a future filled with hope and provision. No matter how hopeless things may seem, God has the power to restore and renew beyond what we could ever imagine.
Scripture Context:
Joel 2:25 (NIV) says, “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten.”
This verse is a promise that God can restore all that was lost. Trusting in His timing and provision brings hope for a brighter future.
Practical Tips:
💕Declare God’s Promises Over Your Life: Speak declarations of faith. Remind yourself that God can restore what has been lost.
💕Visualize Your Future: Picture the life you want to build and take small steps toward it, trusting that God will guide you.
💕Celebrate Small Victories: Recognize and celebrate each small step, knowing that it is part of the larger journey God has for you.
6. Share Your Story and Testimony
There is power in sharing your story. Ruth became part of God’s greater plan and legacy through her resilience and faith. Your journey has significance too. God can use your experiences to inspire, uplift, and encourage others who may face similar battles. Sharing your testimony helps reclaim your power and reminds you of the strength that has carried you through.
Scripture Context:
Revelation 12:11 (NIV) says, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”
Testimonies have the power to bring healing and transformation—not only for you but also for those who hear your story.
Practical Tips:
💕Join a Support Group: Engage with others on similar journeys. Sharing your testimony can create connections and inspire others.
💕Start a Blog or Journal: Document your journey of healing. Your words may reach someone who needs hope and strength.
💕Volunteer or Mentor: Use your experiences to uplift others navigating loss or trauma. Investing in others can bring fulfillment and remind you of your own progress.
Conclusion
Navigating through loss and emerging triumphantly requires faith, intentionality, and a commitment to healing. Ruth’s story reminds us that with resilience and faith, even the most challenging experiences can be transformed into pathways for God’s blessings. Trust that God is working behind the scenes to bring restoration and favor into your life, just as He did for Ruth.
No matter what you’ve faced or where you’ve been, God’s plan for your life is greater than any loss. By anchoring yourself in faith, seeking support, letting go of past pain, investing in self-care, and holding onto hope, you can emerge victorious, transformed, and stronger than before.
Let’s walk this journey together, trusting that God’s hand is upon us, leading us from loss to triumph.