From; Brenda Walsh Ministries
Never Quit
Someone once said, “Good things come to those who believe, better things come to those who are patient, and the best things come to those who don’t give up.” No matter how dismal and dark your life might seem - never give up because there is always hope in Jesus! Life’s trials are inescapable and usually come with no warning. Just when you least expect it, you learn your company is downsizing, your car needs a new engine, or your doctor calls with a grim diagnosis. But the Bible has a positive take on encountering challenges and hard times. James 1:2 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” This doesn’t mean that God expects you to be “joyful” going through the hard times, but to consider the trial “a joy.” That’s a huge difference. God doesn’t expect you not to feel pain or for you to pretend that you’re not hurting. Trials are not always “your” fault, but often due to the sinfulness of this world. Throughout your life, it is inevitable that you’ll experience heartache, pain, and disappointments. It won’t be a “perfect” world until you get to heaven, but God gives insight on how trials can strengthen your character and actually be a blessing as they put your faith to the test. James 1:3-4 tells us, “The testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Remember, life has two rules: 1. Never quit, and 2. Always remember rule number 1. Pray for strength, courage, and faith to face every hardship and claim God’s promise in James 1:12: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” Text: Romans 5:3-4, Philippians 4:13, Hebrews 12:1-2, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18