Don’t Give Up – Finding Strength to Keep Going
Life feels heavy for a lot of people right now. Overwhelmed. Discouraged. Weary.
When you feel like that, what do you really need?
Some people say, “I just need some encouragement.” But what does that actually look like?
Is it a gentle smile and a kind voice?
Is it the Stuart Smalley approach from that old Saturday Night Live sketch: “You’re good enough, you’re smart enough, and doggone it, people like you”?
Sure, in the moment, a pep talk like that might feel good. But deep down, what we really need isn’t just comfort. We need someone to look us in the eye and say:
“Don’t quit. Keep going. You can do this.”
Because the truth is, with God’s help and God’s power, you can fight another day. Today you don’t have to give up. Today you can keep moving forward.
When you’re tired, you don’t need someone to say, “Why don’t you just sit this one out?” You need someone to say, “Stay in the game. Keep pressing on. It’s going to be worth it. Keep your eyes on the prize.”
God’s Pep Talk to Joshua
In Joshua 1, we find God giving His own pep talk. Joshua had just lost his leader, Moses. Now God told him to lead the people across the Jordan into the Promised Land.
Joshua had to feel overwhelmed. Discouraged. Maybe even afraid.
So God said to him over and over:
“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
This is exactly what Joshua needed to hear — not just “It’s going to be okay” but “I’m with you. Don’t be afraid. Keep moving forward.”
A Great Cloud of Witnesses
Hebrews 12 picks up this same theme:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight… and run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus…” (Hebrews 12:1–2)
The writer is saying: You’re not alone. Others have run this race before you.
Hebrews 11 lists them — the “Hall of Faith.” People who were faithful when it was hard. Here’s the encouragement they might say to you today:
Noah – built a boat for 120 years before it rained. Maybe he’d say, “I know you’re tired of waiting, but the rain will come.”
Abraham – left home without knowing where he was going. Maybe he’d say, “You may not see the destination yet, but trust God’s direction.”
Sarah – believed God’s promise for a child when it was physically impossible. Maybe she’d say, “Even when it makes no sense, God will keep His word.”
Joseph – endured betrayal, false accusations, and prison, yet God used him to save a nation. Maybe he’d say, “Life isn’t fair, but don’t quit — God is working.”
Rahab – a prostitute God used to protect His people. Maybe she’d say, “Your past doesn’t define you. God can still use you.”
Their Message to You
If that great cloud of witnesses could speak to us today, I think they’d all shout in unison:
“Don’t give up! Keep the faith!”
The same God who helped them is the same God who will help you.
So if your grip is slipping… dig down deep and lean on His strength, not your own.
If your heart is weary… remember the One who endured the cross for you.
Now is not the time to tap out, bow out, or fall out.
Now is the time to keep going.
Bottom line: The God who was faithful then is faithful now. And with Him by your side, you can take the next step… and the one after that.
Eric
