Women’s Association Presents: Finding Resilience, Joy, and Our Identity in Jesus Christ

On October 8, Mary “of a Certain Village” in Luke 10:38-42 will be the focus of our discussion. Mary’s story teaches us that spending time listening to and learning from Jesus is the better part.

In this Bible study, we will explore the concept of resilience. This is modeled for us by several biblical characters, gospel and epistle writers, as well as Jesus. So, what is resilience? Resilience is the ability to bounce back and adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or stress. People who survive and thrive well in the face of change are resilient.

The Bible study is also about joy. How do you find joy in a chaotic world? Christian joy may differ from how many people define joy. Joy is sometimes confused with happiness. For Christians, joy can be experienced even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Joy is the second fruit of the Spirit, preceded by love and followed by peace (Gal 5:22-23). Trusting in God during trying times can fill us with glorious joy and peace. We have joy in our suffering because, ultimately, our joy is found in Jesus Christ.

We will also seek to rediscover our identity. Identity is more than who we are or who we show ourselves to be. At its core, it points to our humanity. Our core identity is not found in our titles, positions, spouses, partners, or possessions. For Christians, our identity is found in Jesus Christ.

NOTE: This Bible study is nine months long and promises to be very popular, as 14 women have already signed up. All women are welcome. We will meet in the Fellowship Hall on the second Thursday morning of each month.

If you would like a study book please contact Louise Anderson. Louise_Anderson@Wycliffe.org or 503-309-1084.