One of my favorite songs growing up was Don’t Stop by Fleetwood Mac. The chorus line is “Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow; don’t stop, it will soon be here. It’ll be better than before; yesterday’s gone, yesterday’s gone.” What encouragement for someone going through a tough time! The lyrics embody hope.

The Bible talks a lot about what to do when faced with struggles. We may wish for a carefree existence, but that’s not realistic. Everyone has problems at times in life.

It’s how we handle problems that makes the difference. Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace…take heart! I have overcome the world.” Our hope lies in the Lord. When we trust that God is bigger than all that scares us, our fears are calmed.

Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.”

When we trust only in ourselves and our strength to walk through troubled waters, we grow weak and faint. When we lean on Jesus and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit, we find peace and joy and strength even in the midst of trying circumstances. We don’t need to wait until tomorrow; we can find what we need today when we go to God.

When we receive God’s grace through salvation, we are given the promise of abundant life for eternity. We are challenged to run the race of life in faith that God will work all things for good, for His purposes, and to press on towards the prize of heaven. When we let go of the past, stop worrying about what might happen in the future, and focus on living in fellowship with God each day, we gain the strength to keep going even when times are tough.

If you are struggling to run the race of life today, place your burdens at Jesus’ feet, rest in His presence, and find hope in Him. Trust that His plans for you are good, get back up, and walk in faith. Keep your eye on the prize … and don’t stop!

“I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” – Philippians 3:14