NEVER GIVE UP

 Galatians 6:9

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

                On October 29, 1941, Winston Churchill visited his old school, Harrow, and addressed the assembled student body. England was embroiled in war and the people of England were facing enormous challenges. Under those circumstances, Churchill gave one of his most memorable speeches. He challenged the students with these words. “Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never – in nothing, great or small, large or petty – never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense.” It was with that spirit that Churchill led his nation from the brink of disaster to the pinnacle of victory.

                We are living in challenging times. We are in an ongoing war with a pandemic that does not want to loosen its grip on our world. We are facing the challenges of global unrest as we pull out of Afghanistan and watch as the Taliban assert their will on that country. We struggle with the flood of people, gathering on our southern border, fleeing all kinds of persecution and hardship, seeking a safe haven within our borders. In many ways, these are discouraging times.

                During such times, we have two choices. We can give in to despair and discouragement or we can face the challenge with determination and faith. The message that Churchill gave to the students at Harrow echoes the message that the Apostle Paul gave to us. Never, never, never give up.

                Paul reminds us that the way we choose to face the challenges of life will shape the outcome. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:7-8) If we give in to discouragement and bitterness, we will foster more discouragement and bitterness. If we choose the path of faith and confidence in the power of the Holy Spirit, we will be rewarded with a stronger faith and greater confidence.  

                We need to remember that our hope is not in a political system or economic might, but in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Our hope rests in the arms of Jesus, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. The writer of Hebrews challenges us during times like this to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:3)

                So how do we face the challenges that are before us? We do it by actively living out our faith in every aspect of our lives. As Hebrews also says, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:22-24)

                In a very practical sense, Paul challenges us to take the path of positive action instead of negative reaction.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written:

"It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:

"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;

if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.

In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:18-21)

                 The first several years of WWII were some of the darkest times in England’s history. Yet they persevered until defeat was turned into victory. We know that we are already have the victory through Jesus Christ. Our enemy has been defeated. So as we face the challenges before us, never, never. never give up!

1 Corinthians 15:57-58

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.