Inspirational: I GIVE UP

Daily Inspirational Encouragement

I GIVE UP

By: Kristine Brown

“I give up.” A phrase many of us can relate to, because the temptation to quit can invade every area of life. We may struggle to persevere in prayer for our children who don’t serve God. Or we fight for years in ministry, only to see declining interest. We work to keep family relationships together but feel like we’re in a losing battle. Or we face that recurring illness one more time. Whatever part of our lives have triggered the desire to quit, rest assured. God knew we would need encouragement to persevere.

“As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.” James 5:11 NIV

In chapter 5, James speaks to his concern for believers as they press through hardship. He compares the Christian walk to a farmer, doing the work then waiting for a harvest. “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.” (James 5:7)

James’ words provide hope for us also, as each day seems to reveal more difficult circumstances. More trouble. More thinking it would be easier to just quit. Instead of letting us give up for good, God reminds us of an important truth when we need help to persevere.

Our merciful Father blesses those who persevere.

If you’re in that place today, where giving up sounds better than staying the course marked out for you, let the verse above offer hope. Let’s pray this prayer together - a prayer to help us persevere. Because blessed are those who stand firm in the struggle.

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