Do you need encouragement? I do. Life can be hard. You think everything is going as planned and then something unexpected happens. How we face the unexpected defines who we are. It demonstrates our true perspective. Will we allow the circumstance to make us better or bitter? Perspective helps me in finding strength in adversity.
Persevering Power
I wrote the book Persevering Power to provide a road map for facing difficult circumstances. Based on decades of personal challenges and walking alongside thousands of others in difficult legal situations, I share what God has taught me. I think the lessons are helpful for anyone.
One lesson is to lean into others. Don’t try to face difficult challenges alone. I have learned much from others as we pass through the furnace of life together. Allow me to share two voices with you.
Finding Strength in Adversity: Reverend Alvin C. Bibbs, Sr.
Alvin grew up in the Cabrini Green neighborhood in Chicago. Cabrini Green was a mixed community of poverty and violence along with love and community. Alvin was nearly killed more than once but God spared him for a purpose. Alvin discovered that purpose when a visiting preacher brought him up on stage at a young age, placed his hand on Alvin’s large afro, and spoke into his life. Alvin was going to be a builder of the beloved community. That pastor knew what he was talking about. He was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Today Alvin leads the Justice Journey Alliance which promotes peace, justice, and community.
I encourage you to click on the image below and listen to Alvin share insights on perspective. He encourages us to (1) take time to meditate and reflect; (2) pause to explore if something could be done differently; and (3) revisit past outcomes including the “never discussed”. He encourages us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and not ourselves and to balance our gospel with grace and justice.
I’ll Call Her Mary
Mary suffered from those “never discussed” items in her past. Her family of origin was abusive. She escaped through marriage only to end up in another abusive situation. She didn’t want to discuss it. She was embarrassed and angry. She felt weak and used. But when the beatings put her in the hospital, she knew she had to be strong. Seeking help was not a weakness but a strength.
Mary found help through a referral to one of Administer Justice’s Gospel Justice Centers. The moment she walked into the church a team wrapped their arms around her in care. She was greeted warmly, offered coffee, assisted with intake, prayed over, and empowered by the attorney she met. The team continued to walk with her, and each resilient step brought Mary closer to health and flourishing as she found protection and hope.
Vulnerability Versus Victimhood
Mary learned to be vulnerable. She spoke of the things “never discussed” and realized she was not alone. Vulnerability invites. Victimhood isolates. Victimhood pushes others away as we dwell on pain. Vulnerability invites others in as we seek healing from pain. Like many survivors, Mary is now a strong voice for the vulnerable.
As the Persevering Power book trailer emphasizes, Mary learned the path out of brokenness is through vulnerability. She now regularly worships in the church that welcomed her and uses her voice to encourage and support others.
Join a community of voices persevering together as we advance God’s justice and shalom for all.
