Over the last few days I’ve been reminded repeatedly how God always redeems our stories for good. He always redeems our seasons of waiting, our valleys, and our struggles. And even though it’s really hard to see that in the moments of hurting and pain, that’s what He does best. Today I want to encourage you to keep going. In whatever struggle or whatever pain you might be living right now, don’t quit. KEEP GOING.
This weekend we had the great pleasure of watching my older brother, who is 41 years old, finally get married. I emphasize finally because we have watched him live alone for decades now, yearning for a wife and someone to love him. Honestly it was hard to see at times, especially when holidays came and he was alone year after year. But even through the many lonely years, he never gave up. He never quit. He never wavered in his faith that God had someone for him. It wasn’t easy, but he held onto hope and it finally happened. God answered his prayer and he is now married to an amazing woman who loves him and cherishes him.
As I was thinking about my brother’s story on our drive home, I couldn’t help but remember all the times God has pulled me out of my own valleys. This year in particular I’ve experienced a lot of personal valleys (I shared more about that in this devotional) but God has always been there. He never left my side, even when things felt really hard. In fact, that’s when God does His best work. He wants to comfort our soul and fill us with peace and strength. We just have to turn to Him to receive it.
“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed or broken. We are perplexed, but we do not give up or quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-10
I don’t know what you’re going through or what winds of testing might be blowing in your life right now, but God has your back. It may feel like you’re at the end of your rope, but we are never at the end of our hope. God never abandons us. Our trials are opportunities for Jesus to demonstrate His power and presence in us. And believe me, the enemy wants you to feel defeated. He wants you to think things will never get better and that you’ll always stay stuck. But that’s not your story.
Start claiming victory over your challenges right this minute and believe that a new horizon is coming.
Your breakthrough is coming.
Great things are coming.
Dust yourself off, stand up, and KEEP GOING.
Remember who you are and what you’re fighting for in this life.
You are never alone. You and God can conquer anything.
“Now Glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we could ever dare to ask or hope.” Ephesians 3:20
“And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
“Let your roots grow down into Him and draw up nourishment from Him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all He has done.” Colossians 2:7
PS: The wedding party walked down the aisle with this song playing. It brought tears to my eyes as soon as I heard it. If you have few minutes to listen, I promise it will encourage you. xo
Thank you so much for this devotional. I am struggling so hard right now and really thought I would never pull through, but my hope is renewed after coming across your story this morning.
Thank you Sarah!
These are great encouraging words.
I’m so glad you post these devotionals. ❤️
Congratulations to your brother.
Another heartfelt, encouraging devotion! Thank you, Sarah. I have found this to be so true in my life. Philippians 4:13 has been a verse I’ve clung to through many challenging chapters in my life. I believe God has brought you to this place, this season, for just this reason…to share these devotions.
Blessings,
Sharis
🌻
Love this! It’s just the lift I needed during this very stressful time. Thank you for sharing!
Perfect devotional as always , full of encouragement and praise for our God!!!!
Thank you do much Sarah! Please Keep on inspiring us with Gods words.
I loved the song your brother played at his wedding so happy for him and his new bride❤️
So happy for your brother! Thanks for these devotional! They ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks so much Sara.
Those are wonderful words of encouragement to hold onto. God does hear our prayers!
Love this! I am in a season of many struggles. I know ultimately that God has got this and has a plan but sometimes the waiting is hard. Thanks for your encouragement!
Thank you for this. I am struggling to find peace lately. I turned 50 this year, my daughter turned 21. My parents are in their 80’s and I see life is just flying by and I’m having a hard time embracing all the changes. I needed this reminder to keep going. I also need to remember to sit with God more each day and to listen for him. I know he has a plan.
Thank you for sharing this. I love that you are sharing what God is laying on your heart. We too, have had a tough year! My father in law passed away, then my brother was diagnosed with leukemia (58 years old) and then my mom just passed away in August. Not to mention all the sadness in Israel and just the troubles of our country and world that is trying to remove God from everything But God is good and He is and will be victorious!Im so, so thankful❤️
Thank you Sarah for sharing this devotional. So many encouraging words. This reminded me of
A song that has been in my heart this week, Dessert Road by Casting Crowns
I don’t know where this is goin’
But I know who holds my hand
It’s not the path I would’ve chosen
But I’ll follow You to the end
Lord, as long as I am breathin’
I will make Your glory known
Even if it means I’m walkin’ on this desert road.
Much love ❤️
And congratulations to your brother
Needed this! So encouraging! Thank you for writing!
Sooo goood!
Sarah, this is so encouraging! Thank you for blessing us with these words!
Thank you for reading it Abby!
Thank you for your words Saran. They have been such a healing balm to me as I wander through my own wilderness. Thank you, thank you. Blessings to you Sarah.