Don't give up!

‘Something To Think About’ B101.5FM Radio Message – 1/26/16

 

We have all heard the term: “Don’t Give Up”

But sometimes we really see it in true and vivid color.

My band, Full Armor, did a fundraiser for a little 12-year-old boy who had cancer. His favorite saying was – “Don’t Give Up.” I was so inspired by his courage and joy, in the face of such pain and hardship that I had to write a song just for him.

Without doubt, if there is anything that will give us a sober minded approach to the challenges we face in this life, is the much more difficult challenges we see others facing in their lives, especially children. During these many years in ministry, I have had people share their hurts, woes, conflicts, challenges, difficulties, and hardships with me. And, many have used the terminology that they just feel like giving up! Although the majority of these circumstances are very real, some of them at times are nothing more than murmuring, complaining, or just an overall attitude of negativity.

With God, difficulties provide an opportunity for growth and understanding. Click To Tweet

I love the saying that says: “I thought I had it rough because I had no shoes, until I saw a man who had no feet.” That is powerful. For sure we will face many difficult circumstances in our lives, and some will bring us to the very edge of our emotional, spiritual, and physical capabilities. In my life, I have learned to look to the cross. When I see the brutal and torturous price my Savior paid – for me – I cannot help but look to Him for strength, comfort, understanding, and help in time of even the greatest need or difficulty. With God, difficulties provide an opportunity for growth and understanding.

The Bible teaches us concerning Jesus: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, for he faced all the testings we do, yet He did not sin.”[Hebrews 4:15].

The amazing thing about my 12-year-old friend with cancer, was he had an amazing faith and relationship with the Lord. His joy, smile, and enthusiasm was not only inspiring, but contagious. Seeing that smile on his face when we played that song for him was one of the highlights of my life. I will never forget him.

At times when things get tough for me, I often think of him, and I’m reminded:

“Don’t give up”

No matter what – Don’t give up! Because God’s love never fails!

4 Comments

  1. So perfect for the “challenge” I am currently facing. In the grand scheme of things, it is minor…filling out paperwork, however I have been tempted to “give up” due to the complexity of it. Hebrews 4:15 and your message reminded me that Jesus faced many testings and trials here on earth, and he is with us in ours! God told Moses in Deuteronomy 2:7 “..these forty years the Lord thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing”. So pastor Dave , thanks for reminding me, DON’T GIVE UP! I know the Lord has been with me these 54 years, and will continue to be! He gives me his word and great pastors to lead and guide me at New Life Outreach!

  2. We should always be reminded of this. In today’s society here in America it is so easy for people to give up and to walk away from difficult situations. To pretend like everything is ok instead of striving to meet God and seek after his grace and his almighty power. With God we should not worry because he ordains our steps and his word says that He knows the plans He has for us and they are plans for good and not disaster, plans to give us a hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

  3. Thank you for your awesome comments Shelly. Since God has certainly already parted the
    ‘Red Sea’ for you, there is no doubt He will get you across the river Jordan. We love you guys very much, and I appreciate your faithful heart, life, and testimony.

  4. Mia, you are without doubt, a person with the experience, and testimony to bring these comments with passion, anointing, and authority! I look forward to the eternal impact you will have on many lives until the Lord returns. God bless you!!

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