Don’t Quit

Read

Psalm 27:13-14 “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”

Nehemiah 13:14 “Remember me for this, my God, and do not blot out what I have so faithfully done for the house of my God and its services.”

‍Think

In the Olympic Marathon, Tanzanian runner John Stephen Akhwari encountered a pivotal moment that echoed far beyond the finish line. Amidst the race, a severe fall left him bruised, bleeding, and he was urged by the medical team to withdraw. But Akhwari pressed on, his determination driving him forward. His slow, limping strides were a testament to resilience. As he crossed the finish line, the stadium stood mostly empty, yet the few remaining witnesses cheered fervently for the battered athlete. His courage, captured by a television crew, echoed louder than any medal ceremony.

His resounding declaration, "My country did not send me 10,000 miles just to start the race. They sent me to finish the race," echoes a powerful truth. In life, many embark on journeys, only to falter and abandon their pursuits. Distractions, discouragement, fatigue and apathy can derail aspirations. We risk abandoning God's purpose for our lives when situations and circumstances overwhelm us.

Even individuals chosen by God, like Nehemiah, encounter heartache and setbacks while fulfilling their callings. We, too, will face trials along our journeys. Yet, like Nehemiah, our resolve should remain fixed on fulfilling God's goals despite the adversities.

Just as Akhwari epitomized perseverance, let us embrace determination in our God-given pursuits. Let us find the courage to endure, refusing to abandon the race set before us. Amid setbacks, distractions, and discouragements, may we cling steadfastly to God's purpose for our lives, staying resolute in our pursuit of his goals.

Apply

Cultivate perseverance by fixing your eyes on Jesus and remembering that endurance brings about spiritual maturity (Hebrews 12:1-2, James 1:2-4). Surround yourself with a community of believers who encourage and support your spiritual journey. Sign up for a ministry team, attend a Bible study class or join a group today.

Pray

God, when obstacles arise and discouragement weighs heavy, remind us of your promises. Help us fix our gaze upon you, the author and finisher of our faith, enabling us to press forward despite the challenges. Guide our steps and keep us steady as we serve you and stay focused. In Jesus' name. Amen.