We were specifically created for a purpose. Depending on our dedication to what the Lord has for us, will depend on how many missions we're assigned. When the Lord speaks to us, we're to obey as he says. In doing so, we will receive two rewards, usually. One is the reward for obeying the Lord. Two is the next mission. We get rewarded with another mission so we can keep getting the first reward. If we continue this good work, and bless the Lord by obeying Him, He will bless us.
However, when we begin doing our purpose, or even mission, what is the number one thing that people have a problem with when dealing with common decisions that require commitment? Giving up. It's always that give up spirit whispering in your ear, isn't it? The same give up spirit that told you that your job wasn't good enough to keep. The same one that told you your marriage wasn't good enough to keep. Ouch...getting there, huh? But seriously, what does it take to have some longsuffering and patience?
What if...God asks you to give somebody $500? What's the first thought? (Are you crazy? I don't have that kind of money [yes you do], how will I do that? Oh my [insert slang here], that's all my savings, but God do I really have to?)
However, we should be very cooperative! Instead of submitting to that give up spirit...we should be joyful in giving. It is, therefore, best to confirm with the person you are handing the money to, that they have a specific need for it, so your money is not handed with an incorrect purpose.
Or better yet, let's focus on a more cryptic story, shall we? A man goes to the doctor, because of being gravely sick. The doctor diagnoses him with a rare cancer and tells him he has 3-4 weeks to get the first treatment (if he wants to catch it early before it causes death), and if he doesn't, he risks death. The man prays to the Lord in hopes that the cancer will be conquered and leave his body, so he does not have to pay thousands of dollars in treatments. See something wrong here?
For starters, asking the Lord for immediate treatment is no way to act. We don't question death! It is better for the man to ask the Lord to help himself be cured. The best plan of action is to have, at least, the first treatment done, because that is the first step in faith on your part. Don't let that give up spirit get involved.
We deal with tons of spirits like that don't we? The adultery spirit, the porn spirit, the sodomy spirit...get where I'm going with this. It's as if our enemy is graphing each of his demons with a specific curse/sin and sending it our ways throughout our lifetimes.
Now, on to more encouraging details to help you to give up the right way...or NEVER give up! Which choice, the former or the latter? I'll pick the latter for 100 points!
Galatians 6:9 reads this: "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
As we read here in Galatians, if we do not give up, we will reap. That means you receive the reward, if you choose not to give up. Good stuff!
John 8:44 tells us this "You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies."
We are told that the devil is a liar and is the father of lies. We're not to follow the wiles and other tricks of the devil, but rather follow God's desires so we may live life correctly, and in truth.
Philippians 4:12-13 says specifically: "I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me"
We are instructed not to give up. To push on through, even when things seem hard. Because God equips you with the strength to do the task assigned, you should go forth and figure out how to accomplish it no matter what!
Put on the full armor of God, as stated in Ephesians 6:14-17, and don't give up. You shall be equipped!!
What are reasons why we should not give up?
- God loves me! -Ref. John 4:10
- I am God's handiwork! -Ref. Ephesians 2:10
- God won't give up on me! -Ref. Hebrews 13:5
- God is my supplication! -Ref. Philippians 4:19
- I am part of the family of God, and we're not quitters!! -Ref. Galatians 4:4-5
