DON'T GIVE UP

I had the privilege of meeting with several people this week. All of whom have been through difficult times, faced tremendous challenges, seen victories and shed their fair share of tears. I really love sitting with others and hearing of their life experience and dreams in their heart. It floats my boat when I can help inspire them to continue and reach those dreams.

I am sure, like me, you have reached a point of decision where you had to choose whether or not you were going to press through the difficult times or stop short of the goal. This decision or stopping point is a crucial opportunity for growth. If we press through, we reach the goal as well as grow a tremendous amount. If we give up, we cease to grow and often fall into the pit of regret. I am reminded of two people I met with this week who reached this stopping point. One chose to press through and one chose to give up.

I was present when one decided to press through. It was difficult but she kept her joy the entire time. The next day I asked her, "So, how do you feel?" She said, "Taller." I know she is tiny but wasn't tracking with her statement. She explained, "I grew last night. It was difficult but I pressed through." I am proud of her. She knows God loves to show Himself strong on our behalf.

1 Cor. 10:13 tells us we will not be tempted beyond what we are able to overcome and with every temptation, God always provides a way out. That is powerful. For me, this scripture gives peace in knowing I will always be able to handle anything that comes my way. No matter the challenge, temptation or struggle, I can succeed. You know, no matter where we are at in life, we have to grow. The moment we refuse to grow, is the moment we are left behind and anything not growing is dead.

What about the person who gave up on a dream? I love this wonderful person. I pray she quickly gets back in the race. We are not in this life alone. The moment we isolate ourselves, is the same moment we shut out love.

What happens if we have given up, stopped short or refused to grow? We find hope in the Word as it tells us the righteous man may fall seven times and gets up again (Prov. 24:16). Acts 3:!9 says to repent and we will find times of refreshing. God's grace is sufficient to get us back up and over the hump. Just ask Him to help. He is quick to hear and always answers.

God is with you today. He'll be there tomorrow and every moment after. You were crafted by the Master Crafter...(hey, it's time to get our mastercraft boat out!) Don't give up and you will surely attain the prize!