As a woman in middle age now, I’m often asked how I make it through life’s obstacles – what makes a marriage great – or how to best raise your kids in this culture. If I could only give one piece of advice it would be this:
DON’T GIVE UP!
That’s exactly what the enemy of our souls wants for us – to give up and get out. Out of the race the Lord has perfectly marked for us. Out of a fervent relationship with the Lord. Out of the purpose the Lord has set into motion for our life. Out of the covenant of marriage. Out of touch with our kids.
So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God you will receive what He has promised … we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.
Hebrews 10:35-36,39
Keep. Taking. One. Step. At. A. Time.
- DON’T GIVE UP ON GOD! First things first: seek first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33) and love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind (Luke 10:27). This isn’t spinning around like crazy trying to earn your position in the family of God. Jesus purchased your place – just be all in! Keep your eyes on Him. Keep leaning into His presence. Read His Word – its full of truth, life, encouragement, direction, discipline and love. Cast your cares on Him – He knows what’s behind and ahead of you. Confess your sin so that you can be refreshed for the journey ahead (Acts 3:19). Yes, have a heart for the world but stay connected to the family of God.
- DON’T GIVE UP ON GOD’S PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE! Have a list of plans but allow the Lord’s purpose to rise to the top (Proverbs 19:21). Are you worn out because your plans haven’t come to fruition? Maybe your gaze is off just a bit. Ask the Lord for His eyes as you look at your agenda. He sees the broad picture and we easily get caught up looking under a microscope. Take a step back. Release your grip. Lift up your eyes and enjoy the view.
- DON’T GIVE UP ON MARRIAGE! Marriage is to be honored by all – whether you’re married or not (Hebrews 13:4). Some of those early years of marriage are difficult as you adjust to oneness. Some of those middle years are difficult as the routine of daily life gets mundane. The transitions in the older years are difficult as kids leave the nest and you realize life is fragile. But I’m here to tell you that marriage can get sweeter and sweeter with love, honor and time. Are you single? I cannot speak from personal experience, but I’ve known many who have lived incredibly full lives in singleness. Don’t stop living each day to the full. Pray for your future spouse. Go on a blind date every once in a while – it worked for me! It’s vital not to settle for someone of low character, but don’t make your “list” impossible for anyone other than Jesus. The Lord is not waiting for you to get married to pour out His blessing – hold out your cup now and allow Him to fill it to overflowing.
- DON’T GIVE UP ON PARENTING! Your children need your unique gifts. The Lord didn’t make a mistake in choosing you to parent the children he blessed you with. You cannot love without discipline and you cannot discipline without love. There’s nothing that will keep you on your knees more than parenting. If you’re not in prayer for your kids, you are too busy and are missing the key to their heart. If you’re married there is nobody better to partner in prayer with over your children than your spouse. Teach your kids the power of walking in forgiveness – you cannot take them any further than you are willing to go. Keep taking them to church. The imperfect and beautiful Body of Christ is a great place to learn about the love of Jesus and the love of others.
I write these words today in humility. I haven’t finished my race yet, I’m still in process. And I have to admit, I wanted to throw in the towel yesterday – it was a dang hard day. On this side of heaven, we won’t have all the answers but may we be found seeking and listening to the One who does.
Let’s spur each other on because this race has some uphill climbs, some down hill ease, and lots of endurance in the flat places.
I’m cheering you on today – DON’T GIVE UP!
