March 29, 2009 reflection on daily devotion

Never give up

March 29, 2009

Sheila Schuller Coleman

"Persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." – Hebrews 10:36

I dreamed of being a physician. However, my studies suffered due to my over-involvement in extra-curricular activities. I sang in an opera, and accompanied vocalists—just to name a few. After an Organic Chemistry test I was sure I'd bombed, I called Dad in tears. "Talk to your professor. See what he can do," he counseled. Spirit sagging, I went to see my professor. My test was graded "D". "I can't get into med school with a 'D' in chemistry," I told him. "And I can't let down the music department." He offered, "Take an incomplete, then study hard over Christmas break. I'll give you a final when you get back." Dad hired a tutor. I studied eighteen hours a day, aced the final, and discovered in the process that I love Organic Chemistry. Never give up. God never gives up on you!
* * * * * * *
Where in your life do you need to persevere? Do you need to ask for help? Ask a friend to be your encourager and accountability partner. Then keep on going!

As I reflect on this devotional email I received today, I know that each of us face times we just want to give up.  How often we underestimate the reward that comes from perseverence and the encouragement that each one of us can give to another who is at that moment in time when nothing seems worth it.  May I keep my mind fixed on the goal to do the will of God and press on!