(c) Amy S. Lewis, 2009
I am often amazed at Ernie’s endurance. We’ve ridden for six hours at a time without him slowing down. He continues to lead the pack, and when he’s not, he nervously trots and prances. Many days, I wish he would tire. Even when he’s sweated up, he maintains his stride. I love that about him. I never have to worry about him plodding along like a plug.
His endurance is an example to all of us in our faith. When times get hard, it’s easy for us to ask God why he’s allowed hard times. We’re tempted to resort to complaining, self pity or worldly answers. We may even turn our backs on God.
Just like Ernie continues to walk with his head held high and step out even hours into a ride, we also need to hold fast to our faith in difficult times. It’s in those times that our faith is tested and strengthened. We need to have the endurance – the perseverance – to press on and press into to God. When we tire, we must lean on God.
Ernie gets relief when we reach the trailer, but he doesn’t usually have much indication that the ride is almost over. He doesn’t know if we’ll ride for another 10 minutes or 10 hours. And yet his endurance doesn’t wane. We, too, get relief and refreshment through the blessings God has for us along the way or when we make it through a difficult time. It can be a challenge to keep our faith. We get burnt out, or prayed out. That’s when we need to persevere the most because our lowest point often precedes victory. If you give up today, you may not know how God may deliver you tomorrow.
When your faith is low and you feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle, turn to scripture, prayer and godly friends to help point you in the right direction and restore your focus.
1 Corinthians 9:26, “So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step.”
2 Timothy 4:7: 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (NIV)
Questions for reflection:
- What one activity can you do today to draw near to God and help restore your faith?
- How would you describe your faith when times are difficult? When life is busy? When God seems distant? When life is going well?
- Recall a previous trial in your life. Was there a dark night that preceded a breakthrough? Describe how you felt during that dark night. How did you feel after your victory? What would have happened if you had given up?
