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.

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!