When Wilma Rudolph was born, the doctors did not expect her to survive. She did! At the age of of four, she contracted pneumonia and scarlet fever, leaving her left leg paralyzed. She learned to walk with the aid of a brace. However, at age nine, she started walking without it. By age 13, she developed a rhythmic walk. That same year, she started running. She entered her first race and came in last. For the next three years, Wilma came in dead last in every race she entered. But she kept running, and eventually, the little girl who was not supposed to live, won three gold medals in the 1960 Olympics.

Like Wilma Rudolph, God calls his people to keep running, despite the odds, circumstances and our feelings. During these economically tough and uncertain times, keep believing the gospel,  keep obeying the Bible, keep praying without ceasing, keep doing good works, keep loving people, and most of all, keep trusting God purpose and plan for your life. Endure, my brothers and sisters! James encouraged believers then and encourages us today to let our endurance grow. In doing so, we will be strong and ready for anything. (James 1:4)

If you are going through a difficult time, economically, relationally, physically, or spiritually,  and you feel like giving up, let these words wash over your heart:

Stay true

Be courageous

Remain faithful

Be strong and steady

Hang on what you believe

Cling to Jesus and never stop trusting