Whether you’re watching a race horse set a torrid pace in the Triple Crown, a rabbit fade from the front during a mile race or witness a running back get tackled from behind, energy is temporary. When the body is pushed to its limits, burn out is inevitable. Thus, high school and college stars often sizzle out when adversity comes. The real question is will they get back up to tarry on another day?
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9.
Nobody likes facing adversity. Sure, it builds character, toughens up individuals and separates champions from the mediocre. Nonetheless, failure is real, around the corner, over the next hill or awaiting you in the future. How you handle trials will determine the path you choose in life. Will you become the person in Bruce Springsteen’s song reminiscing about your Glory Days or can you mustard up enough courage to face the giant obstacles standing in your way?
And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you, 1 Peter 5:10.
Unfortunately, this generation appears to be soft, throwing in the towel after the first couple of punches life hits you with. Others take years to get over missed opportunities, rejections and personal tragedy. Perhaps, this is why the author of Hebrews refers to life as a marathon. You must be careful to pace yourself, realizing you have a long way to go despite whatever set backs you may encounter. Therefore, don’t sizzle out when adversity comes. Rather, keep in step with the Holy Spirit, relying on Christ’s strength to get you through the pain you are enduring, Philippians 4:13.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 