Standing Strong

There is a point in every marathon where the runner gets weary and wants to quit.  He doesn't feel like he can finish. His strength is running out. I've been a runner in a few races before.  In one particular race, it was sort of like a relay, with both bikers and hikers.  I think that was probably the toughest race I've done yet.  I started out great.  I had a lot of strength, and it helps when there is at least one or two people not too far away from you.  I was behind this one girl, but then she sped up a little, and I was all alone.  (Keep in mind that this was in a woods area, and there were different check points with a person at each to time us.)  Well, for a little while I was doing okay.  But at one point, I was kind of scared and weary, and I felt like it was taking forever to get to the next check point.  Finally, I asked God to give me the strength and to help me.  I made it to my destination-  but only with God's...

These days, a lot of us try to live on our own ability. We think we can do anything with our own power. The truth is, we won't be able to do anything on our own. We need someone to help us, to encourage us, to strengthen us in times of distress. Of course, our friends and family might already be doing that, and we think we don't need anyone else besides the people around us. Well, partly true, we can get some encouragement from other people. However, the only One Who can really strengthen us is God. No man can encourage or strengthen us like He can. Friends and family come and go and cannot always be there for us. God will always be there for us. He is forever faithful, and He is the only One Who can quench all our thirsts. Maybe you are looking for that kind of strength and encouragement. If so, you've come to the right place! If you are not a Christian, you first need to receive Jesus Christ as your Savior, before asking Him for that strength. If you are a Chris...