“We do it because it’s hard, not because it’s easy,” I heard the speaker say. This statement resonated within me as I thought about my walk with Jesus. I want to be so near the giver of true living (versus existing); and yet, it seems I’m constantly picking myself off the ground.
It’s at times like these that my Father reminds me that I live in a fallen world and have a sin stained flesh, both of which resist change big time! I wish I could be like the pastor who said, “Just stop!” in mimicking an old sitcom TV counselor. I’m glad it works that way for him, but that sure hasn’t been the reality in my life.
Though it’s no easy task to screen out the thousands of voices, including my own, I hear each day to hear and follow the only one that counts, the Shepherd’s (Jn. 10:27); it’s the only task that brings real peace and life.
Yes, it is hard. Yes, it takes a tremendous Spirit empowered faith effort to do it. But as a Jesus lover, what choice do I have, quit? It’s the hope in the promises and truths of Scripture that keep me getting up and trying again as one day He will finish the job He started (Heb. 12:2).
My fellow Jesus sheep, never give up yourself, your Shepherd doesn’t, no matter how hard it gets.