Don't Give Up

That was the title in the daily devotional by Max Lucado today. I read it several times and these words jumped out at me: Jesus didn't quit. But don't think for one minute that he wasn't tempted to.

All we have to reference about this is the experience in the garden before his death where he was sweating blood in anxiety over what he was about to face. If he was like us but not of us, he was still trying to show us how to handle those critical moments when we want to give up.

His way of course was to re-route his feelings into prayer, alone with God in heaven to connect to his purpose. When he connected he said yet not my will, but yours be done. Immediately God sent an angel to strengthen him, not avoiding the most difficult task ahead, but strengthening him to face it.

I have personally followed this blueprint to face many trials and it absolutely works. Most certainly I have nearly sweated blood over the anticipated outcome and God has fortified my spirit to be courageous. In my times of addiction I quit difficult situations many times, but not now. I repeat to myself these biblical words be strong and courageous for the Lord your God goes before you!

Yes he does, yes he will, but if we doubt that he will we will buckle before he does. Once we buckle in fear, the fear will multiply which eliminates the power of faith in him and leaves it to our own devices which usually fail. 
Don't give up! On the other hand each battle of faith we win multiplies as well into magnificent courage to fight again, and again and again. And as each battle is won with God we realize we are now living a victorious lifestyle.

Who did it: God did it, in person, and on our behalf through heaven as well!