Life gets tough. Living in this sin-soaked world can become almost unbearable. If that’s where you are today, I’m sorry you’re in such a difficult space. You’re not alone.
John 16:33 (NLT) “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome the world.”
There is always the temptation to quit, throw in the towel, and move on in hard times like these. But choosing to quit can often be more painful and makes things even more difficult. It’s essential to learn how to lean into the Lord, reach out to others and go forward by faith.
Acts 2:42 (NLT) “All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer.”
Are there times when considering quitting is a good choice? Yes, sometimes it is. You may be in an abusive situation where you need to get to safety. You may face challenges that will be solved by being in a new environment. There are other very valid reasons to take a different course. Yes, there are times when changing directions is the choice that needs to be made.
Difficult times do have a way of passing. But more often than not, it’s better to steady on and see things through. Choosing to go forward will make you stronger and more resilient. It will also help you build meaningful relationships that can support you during difficult times. It will also help you learn what God is doing in your life, developing you into the very image of Christ.
In tough times like these, I’m reminded that what I need for the moment is endurance, that God-given power to bear up under the weight of the difficulty. He has been and is faithful every time.
Hebrews 10:35–39 (NKJV) “Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise: “For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.”
The next time you’re tempted to quit, consider why you’re thinking about it. Is it because things are challenging, or you’re feeling a little discouraged? Reach out to a friend, trusted brother, or sister and talk through your feelings. You may find that they offer a different perspective that helps you see things in a new light. Be sure to pray together and cast your cares upon Him because He cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6–7 (NLT) “So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
Whatever you do, don’t give up. God loves you so much that He is worth the effort to see things through to the end. And remember, even if you stumble along the way, you can always get back up and try again. Life is full of second chances.
If you’re feeling tempted to quit, here are a few things to consider:
-The pain of quitting is often worse than the pain of seeing things through.
-Quitting often makes things more difficult.
-You can build essential relationships by choosing not to quit and reaching out.
-God loves you and is worth the effort it takes to see things through to the end.
-Life is full of second chances.
So don’t give up! Just take it one day at a time, and reach out for support when you need it. You got this, but more importantly, Jesus has you safe and secure! You are strong enough in Christ to see things through.
Psalm 23:1 (NKJV) “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
