Three times we feel like giving up, and four ways to keep going!
We find ourselves at the end of August, the end of summer nearly, and we were all hoping – the end of this pandemic, but it continues to loom before us. It’s easy to feel like it’s time to give up. Each month something changes, dates are moved back, plans are rearranged yet again, and hearts and minds grow weary under the the constant not knowing.
However, we believe, even as you read this, that your heart will be encouraged and your mind renewed with confidence that God is still in control; He is not finished with UCSS in Bulike & Buluya. He is not finished with YOU! We are amazed on a weekly basis at the miraculous change that continues to take place and the lives that continue to come to Jesus in the midst of these – more uncertain that most – times.
It is because of those of you who stand fast
It is because of those of you who stand fast in faith with us, continuing to give and pray, that we are able to keep walking into the heart of darkness, shining the light of the glorious gospel for all to see. I thank you for not giving up even when the way is hard. It is my prayer that the following will assure you that you are not alone in this kingdom work.
Dr. Ronald…
Three Times We Could Throw in the Towel…
When is it time to throw in the towel? How do we know? Do we…
- stop when there’s opposition? Paul said a great door of opportunity was open there at Ephesus, though many opposed him. He continued his work.
- stop when we’re tired of the battle? Jesus told the church of Philadelphia, I know you’re tired, and the Synagogue of Satan is lying about you. He told them to continue to persevere.
- stop when the laws are contrary to our vision? Paul prayed, while in prison, that the mystery of Christ would be declared. He continued to preach in chains.
We cannot give up on the vision that God has placed on our hearts. His grace is sufficient, so we will continue pressing on in His grace. If you are feeling down in these difficult days, here are some things you can do right now to encourage yourself.
Four Ways to Keep on Going…
Focus on Growing.
What You Can Do.
Fredrick Douglas said, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” and we know that as we work through situations, we grow. If we just focus on the struggle, we don’t give ourselves the space we need to see the progress. So, focus on growth: read a book, try a new hobby, or learn a new skill, and look for the progress!
Meditate on This: “In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. ” Philippians 1:4-6
Focus on Doing What You Can.
What Can You do?
In times where many things are out of our control, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, but it is important to stay focused on what you can do. Stay healthy, guard your mind, love your neighbor, take time to laugh and enjoy the moment, and meditate on the promises of God day and night.
Mediate on This: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me. “Philippians 4:13
Focus on Others.
How Can You Encourage Others?
Most of us are living a very different life than we are used to, but this gives us a great opportunity to love each other. What can you do today to uplift someone? Send an encouraging card? Drop off someone’s favorite snack at their door? Give someone a call? What action would speak love to your neighbor? You will feel better when you reach out.
Meditate on This: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belongs glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11
Focus on the Future.
Tomorrow Is a New Day!
Accept the circumstances and know that they won’t last forever. If today was hard, get a good night’s sleep, meditate on God’s promises, and know that tomorrow will be a new day. These days can be hard, but they won’t last forever. God’s grace is sufficient, and we can do these things because he loves us and cares for us.
Meditate on This: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
