We like the image of the rugged individual. The guy who stands on his own two feet, The woman who built a successful business by working hard and persevering, It’s what many believe made our country great, right? We love the stories of those who found opportunity and blazed their own trails: Daniel Boone, George Washington Carver, Amelia Earhart, Kehinde Wiley, and Dr. Mae Jemison. These individuals inspire us because they show what willpower and courage can accomplish.
Herbert Hoover coined the term “the rugged individual” during his 1928 presidential campaign, encouraging Americans to embrace the notion of rugged individualism and take care of themselves, In politics and business, rugged individualism can drive innovation, as seen in Madam C.J. Walker, who rose from poverty to become a self-made millionaire through hard work and persistence.
God equips us to support one another, True strength comes from unity within the body of Christ.”
But rugged individualism fails miserably in the Christian life. As followers of Christ, we are not called to go it alone. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul paints a picture of the church as one body-the body of Christ. Each member has unique gifts, and God equips us to support one another, True strength comes from unity within the body of Christ.
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