Is being resolute enough...?

Benjamin Hall’s recent book, “Resolute”, is the compelling autobiographical story of his recovery from near-fatal injuries suffered as a journalist in the Ukraine. I read it yesterday in one setting, unable to put it down.

There are challenging insights that Hall shares in his courageous journey to “normalcy” and assimilation back into a vestige of his former life. Among them are his multiple learning experiences about pain management, his adaptations and adjustments to his physical limitations, and the pivotal role of his primary motivation--the irreplaceable strength of a loving and supporting family-- in the facilitation of his miraculous recovery.

It’s in the last section of the book that Hall identifies the pivotal role of faith in God in helping emerge from the legitimate questions that a life-changing trauma like this evokes. Though Hall acknowledges his faith struggle he concludes, “…instinctively and without forethought, I offered a prayer to God, ‘Get me home…God I need you’”.

Resolve is an important mindset in facing trouble and trauma. The human mind and will are capable of creating am environment that enhances our ability to cope with life’s most tumultuous seasons.

And they come to each of us.

Unsolicited.

Unplanned.

Unwelcomed.

Being “resolute” can be a key component in addressing and adapting to the vicissitudes of life.

I’m not persuaded it is enough. The failure to include the faith factor (a) puts all the responsibility for coping on my finite humanity and (b) precludes the infinite resources available in acknowledging our God who walks with us through the unavoidable mine fields of life.

Here’s my conclusion…

I am resolute in my acknowledgement of my daily daily need of God and affirmation of the strength He uniquely provides.

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