The title of this inspirational message is a quote by an NFL quarterback. His point is well-taken. Tough times do not last. Most of us have had tough times in life. We had to be patient until the crisis passed. It is said that for Aristotle, “patience was bitter but the fruit it bore was sweet.” Whatever crisis or circumstances you are experiencing, stay strong and be patient. You will recover.
Tough people are equipped with the ability to work through difficult times by relying on an inner strength. We have heard the encouraging words of being strong as a hickory tree. Hickory trees are able to recoil or spring back into shape after bending or being compressed by the wind. They do not break easily. It can be the same for humanity. When we discover that we are in a crisis, keep pressing and pushing forward. You will make it through your situation.
Tough people eliminate the weeds in their life to stay strong. There is a biblical story that illustrates this truth. In the famous parable about the Sower, seeds fell into four different kinds of soil. The seed that fell among thorns stood for those who hear; but as they go on their way, they are choked by life’s worries, and they do not mature. The point is this: don’t allow worries to choke out the best things in life for you.
Pursuing things that cause one to falter can choke out spiritual growth. It is okay to have a good time, but we need to protect our priorities. When we have time to shop, go to the beach, play golf, or spend hours watching television and yet don’t have time to meditate about the goodness of the Lord, our priorities can be out of balance. There is absolutely nothing wrong with shopping, going to the beach or playing golf. These activities can be therapeutic but balance these activities with spiritual growth.
To be strong in tough times, there must be a balance between giving time for spiritual growth and the pleasures of life. There is a great scripture that comes to mind, and it is “but those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”
So, remember in 2022 as we weather the storms of COVID, “Tough times don’t last but tough people do.” Let’s get tough and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Chaplain Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
