When You Feel Like Quitting

Sometimes you are tempted to quit.

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You are tempted to quit especially when you feel:

• Exhausted

• Exasperated

• Overextended

• Overwhelmed

In such times, you need dogged determination.

Determination, by dictionary definition, is:

• Resolve

• Sense of purpose

• Single-mindedness

• Strength of purpose

• Steadfastness

• Staunchness

• Stout-heartedness

• Indefatigability

In Genesis 12 Abram leaves his native place to pursue God’s purpose. The road is not easy. In fact, many obstacles await him. Yet Abram counts the stars because he can count on God.

In the latter chapters of Genesis, Joseph finds himself in a pit and then a prison, but the beleaguered brother does not bask in self pity or throw in the proverbial towel. Instead, he keeps his hand to the plow, works hard, trusts the Lord’s providence, and is used of God in significant ways.

In the book of Esther, the young Jewish queen recognizes her responsibility to stand up for what is right. The cost is not cheap. To stand before the king could cost her life and breath. Yet with single-mindedness Esther speaks to the king and ultimately saves her people from destruction.

In Acts the Apostle Paul encounters much toil and danger. But no amount of sleepless nights or stress-filled days can stop God’s messenger from proclaiming the mystery of the gospel.

In each of these faith-filled examples (reread Hebrews 11 through 12:1-3) a dogged determination refuses to be deterred. Nothing can prevent these courageous men and women from running their race.

What’s stopping you from running yours?

For more on courage, check out these articles:

• Why Courage Still Matters

• Lessons in Courage