When we’re tired, beat up and weak, we think, “Why bother anymore. Who cares? Now’s not the time anyway.”
These are lies whispered into our pain by the evil kingdom of our enemy, the devil. They feel like relief when we’ve just had enough. It’s time to accept that things will always just be miserable.
Not according to Jesus, the Lord of impossible and improbable and painful circumstances, and Savior of the sinful, the shamed and guilty, the hopeless and weak.
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Don’t give into the lies. Don’t give up on hope in Jesus. These are tactics of your spiritual enemies. Call them out with the truth in Jesus’ name.
Most importantly, believe this: Your strength is not up to you! It is a gift from God. It is bestowed, not just earned. It is manufactured in heaven, not in your own broken heart.
Here’s a conversation that a troubled believer named Daniel had. He talked in the right direction. Rather than believing the devil’s lies he turned to God’s gracious, mighty promises delivered by a messenger from God.
At this point, Daniel has had enough. He explains, “I bowed with my face toward the ground and was speechless … I said to the one standing before me, ‘I am overcome with anguish … and I feel very weak … My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe’” (Daniel 10:15-17).
Ever felt that way? It happens even to strong believers like Daniel. It happens. When you notice it, then just call it what it is, like Daniel does. Be real. Turn to God (who already knows anyway, right?).
You don’t have to be strong. Just don’t quit. That’s all it takes.
“Do not be afraid, you who are highly esteemed,” God’s messenger reassures him. “Peace! Be strong now; be strong” (Daniel 10:19).
Strong? How? Because God says so! Daniel celebrates with new resilience and vigor, “When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, ‘Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength’” (Daniel 10:19).
See that? “Given.” Strength is given. Yes, you can train yourself to be stronger mentally, physically, emotionally and even spiritually but that is not your only source for resilience. Actually, it’s not your best source. God is.
Live with divine strength and courage today. Believe what God promises. It is yours.
PRAYER: Your strength, O Lord, surpasses the powers around me that threaten me, tempting me with their lies, pushing despair on me as deeply as they can. Sometimes, I get tired and want to give up. I need your strength, Lord. Make me strong. In your name, I will not quit. Amen.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP: Name it. Be specific. Be clear. What lie are you believing? Your first step to overcome it is to identify it.
