Pressing Through

Why Resistance and Trials Are the Keys to Thriving

We all love ease. Comfort is attractive. But growth rarely happens in ease—it happens in the press, in the tension, in the middle of the storm. If you’re facing resistance or walking through a turbulent season, you’re not losing—you’re being invited into a deeper kind of transformation.

Let’s explore why pressing through resistance, rather than avoiding it, is essential for living a thriving life of faith.

1. Resistance Is a Sign You’re on the Right Path

When challenges arise, it can feel like something is wrong. But the truth is, resistance often shows up when you’re moving in the right direction. The Apostle Paul understood this deeply:

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.” — Philippians 3:12 (NKJV)

The language of pressing on implies effort, resistance, and intentionality. Paul didn’t avoid hardship—he moved through it with purpose, knowing it was the pathway to something greater.

2. Avoiding the Storm Is Shortchanging Yourself

Let’s be honest—no one wants to face turbulent times. But here’s the paradox: avoiding hard seasons actually robs you of growth. Challenges are the soil where patience, strength, and wisdom take root.

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” — James 1:2-3 (NKJV)

The testing of your faith is not meant to break you; it’s meant to build you. Each storm you face and endure becomes a spiritual milestone—a chapter in your testimony.

3. Growth Through Trials Means You Learn to Thrive

God’s goal for you isn’t just survival—it’s to thrive. Thriving doesn’t mean a life without problems; it means growing stronger, deeper, and more grounded through them. Real growth happens when you let trials shape you, not define you.

“We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” — Romans 5:3-4 (NKJV)

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life…” — James 1:12 (ESV)

It’s not about getting through unscathed, but about becoming someone new through the scars. You come out wiser, more humble, more resilient, and more attuned to God’s voice.

Lean Into the Resistance

Resistance isn’t the enemy. Turbulence isn’t failure. Trials aren’t punishment. They are invitations—divine opportunities to press in, grow up, and walk forward with deeper authority.

So don’t shrink back. Don’t shortcut the process. Press through the resistance. Let the trials do their work. And when you come out on the other side, you’ll do more than survive—you’ll thrive.

⸻

What’s one challenge you’re facing right now that could actually be a growth opportunity? Let’s talk in the comments.

⸻

With Love, Esinam.