Ture Strength Comes From God
Strength can often be hard to find in the midst of life’s trials and tribulations. In those moments it is easy to feel overwhelmed and tempted to throw in the towel. We’ve all been there, asking ourselves, “How much can I endure? When is it okay to give up?” But as Jim’s powerful message reminds us, giving up is not the answer. Instead, it’s about finding the strength to keep fighting, to persevere even when the journey gets tough.
Jim’s words resonate with the experiences of many who have faced adversity after adversity. Whether it’s personal challenges, professional setbacks, or struggles within relationships, the temptation to surrender can be strong. But Jim’s story, like that of many others throughout history, serves as a beacon of hope and resilience.
One of the most poignant aspects of Jim’s message is his acknowledgment of the hardships we all face. Life is undeniably hard, filled with obstacles and difficulties that can test our resolve. Yet, Jim reminds us that while life itself may be challenging, the journey of faith, particularly within the context of the church, can be even harder.
Church, as Jim puts it, stands against the mainstream of society and culture. It challenges us to uphold values and beliefs that may often clash with prevailing norms. And in this ongoing battle to keep God in the picture, Jim urges us not to give up, not to succumb to bitterness or despair. Instead, he calls us to keep fighting, to remain steadfast in our faith despite the obstacles we encounter.
Drawing inspiration from biblical figures like Ruth and the Apostle Paul, Jim emphasizes the importance of perseverance. Ruth, despite facing numerous trials, never gave up hope. And Paul, in his final days, declared that he had fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.
These examples serve as reminders that endurance is not just about surviving but about thriving in the face of adversity. It’s about clinging to hope when all seems lost and finding the strength to press on, even when the odds are stacked against us.
In our own lives, we may encounter moments of doubt and despair. We may question why God allows us to endure such trials and tribulations. But as Jim’s message reminds us, these challenges are not meant to break us but to build us, to strengthen our resolve and deepen our faith.
So, to those who are struggling, to those who may feel like giving up, let Jim’s words be a source of encouragement. Let them remind you that you are not alone in your struggles and that there is strength to be found in perseverance. Keep fighting, keep believing, and above all, keep the faith.
Consider the story of David, a young shepherd boy who faced daunting challenges long before he became king. When a lion and a bear threatened his flock, David didn’t back down. Instead, he confronted these formidable predators with faith and courage. In 1 Samuel 17:34-36, David recounts his experience: “But David said to Saul, ‘Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him.'”
David’s courage in the face of these trials prepared him for even greater challenges, like his encounter with Goliath. His faith and perseverance exemplify the strength we can find in God when we face our own “lions and bears.”
Let David’s story inspire you. No matter what you are facing, remember that you have the strength to overcome it. Keep pressing on, trust in God’s provision, and know that every trial you face is an opportunity to grow in faith and fortitude.
