Facing Resistance

Hypertrophy is the science of muscle building. It is a process where as a result of strength or resistance training, activity is stimulated in muscle fibres causing them to grow. When the muscle is exposed to consistent resistance, the muscle breaks or tears. That tearing of the muscle is referred to as trauma. The muscle is then allowed to heal over time, but retains the new size adapted from the trauma. Two things are very key in this process, the exercise, which is based on resistance, and nutrition. Irrespective of the amount of exercise, if not accompanied by a good nutrition, muscle growth is hindered. It is the nutrients supplied to the torn muscle that supports healthy growth. This is very relevant to life and our spiritual walk with God. Whatever food is to the body, the word of God is to our faith. In order to grow in any area of life, we must be willing to face resistance. Resistance doesn't come to stop us, it comes to nurture and propel us to new levels of life manifested through stronger faith muscles. As much as a well-built human body is attractive to look at and admire, the same can be said of a solid faith developed through a process of resistance experiences, correct division and application of the word of God [spiritual nutrition]. If we had to look at it through levels, faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God; strong faith is built by one’s ability [and willingness] to face and endure resistance while embracing a positive attitude which is birthed by the revelation of God's word. When God’s word is tested in our lives, and instead of letting go, we steadfastly hold on to the word regardless of opposing circumstances, our faith muscle has no choice but to grow in leaps and bounds. Whilst the possession of great faith is a gift, the display [intentional manifestation] of the same is a by-product of great adversity. This is very clear throughout scripture. Unless one's perspective on resistance is adjusted by way of revelation, failure, despair and miscarriage of purpose is inevitable. Too many great dreams have been miscarried because dreamers of our time cannot handle resistance. One of the greatest biblical examples of a dreamer who did not succumb to resistance is Joseph. With his dream came rejection, the pit, Potiphar’s wife and prison. But none of these potential dream killers could clog his dream. Show me any great achiever, and I will show you how much resistance he or she has had to face to get to their peak. Every dream will face all kinds of resistance from every direction. People will try to resist you, you may face a lack of resources or natural challenges, family, or even personal inadequacies. When Paul says to the Philippians "I press toward the mark of my high calling", he is in essence, alerting us that he is faced with resistance. One does not press unless there is resistance. In all of history’s greatest narratives, it is proven over and over that there is no gain without pain, no triumph without trials, no conquest without combat, no testimony without a testing, and almost all crisis carry an aspect of Christ revealed. In this well articulated narrative, "FACING RESISTANCE", Jerrard Peace skillfully inspires you to learn how to use resistance to your advantage. Inspired by his personal journey, this book is not just theory but a practical illustration, enough to inspire a shift in your thinking and positioning you on a path to realizing your dreams. As you read through this book, may God give you the capacity to face resistance with a transformed attitude. See you at the top the bottom is overcrowded!