Developing Apostolic Grit: Great Resilience in Time (G.R.I.T.) —Building Self-Efficacy, Growth Mindset, Time Management, and Resilience
Grit is more than just enduring hardship—it's about cultivating "Great Resilience in Time" (G.R.I.T.). As believers, we know that God uses every trial and tribulation to build our character and faith, but it's the resilience developed over time that truly empowers us to thrive in our walk with Christ. In my TEDx Talk on "The Power of G.R.I.T.," I explain to each listener how grit leads to measurable growth and transformation, not just in academics but in every area of life.
As Apostolic Christians, we can harness the power of grit to develop four key areas that are essential for living a victorious life in Christ: self-efficacy, growth mindset, time management, and resilience.
1. Self-Efficacy: Confidence in God’s Power Through Us
Self-efficacy is the belief that you can accomplish what God has set before you, not through your own strength but through His. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This Scripture reminds us that our success in the face of trials is not based on our abilities but on God’s strength working through us. When we cultivate grit, we build self-efficacy by repeatedly trusting God in the process, knowing that He equips us for every challenge.
2. Growth Mindset: Embracing Challenges as Opportunities for Growth
Apostolic G.R.I.T. cultivates a growth mindset, which is the belief that we can grow and improve through effort and perseverance. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us that trials lead to growth: "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." With a growth mindset, we view challenges as opportunities for God to refine and strengthen us. Each trial becomes a stepping stone toward spiritual maturity, helping us become more like Christ.
3. Time Management: Stewarding Our Time Well in the Midst of Trials
Time management is a crucial aspect of grit, as it teaches us to focus on what matters most—our relationship with God and fulfilling His purpose for our lives. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." As we manage our time effectively, we become better stewards of the opportunities God gives us, prioritizing His will even when life is challenging. Grit teaches us to persevere with intentionality, making the most of every moment as we trust God’s perfect timing.
4. Resilience: Strength to Endure Through Every Trial
Resilience is the backbone of grit. As believers, we are not promised a life without hardships, but we are promised God’s strength to endure. Isaiah 40:31 says, "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." Grit gives us the resilience to keep going, knowing that God is our sustainer. In times of trial, we rely on His strength, confident that He will see us through.
Conclusion: G.R.I.T. – The Power of Great Resilience in Time
In my TEDx Talk, I reveal how G.R.I.T. transforms lives by fostering self-efficacy, growth mindset, time management, and resilience. As Apostolic believers, we are called to develop this same grit through our faith in Christ. By trusting God’s process and leaning on His strength, we build resilience that not only sustains us but empowers us to thrive in every season of life.
Grit is the "Great Resilience in Time" that helps us overcome obstacles, grow spiritually, and remain steadfast in our purpose. As Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us: "Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." Through grit, we fix our eyes on Christ and run our race with confidence, knowing that He equips us to persevere and emerge stronger through every trial.