How do we find the strength to keep going?

When everything feels so uncertain

Let me share a poignant excerpt from my published book, WHEN JESUS CALLS, an inspirational, encouraging, and uplifting story.

The uncertainty in Mary’s heart was real, and she felt it. They grilled hamburgers and talked about how life was changing for all of them. They talked about Mary’s book and how God was using it to change lives. She wondered how this part of her story would be. She prayed that she and Michael would be husband and wife and that she would have the marriage she had always dreamed of. Regardless, she thought, I know my Father will be with me. She was beginning to realize her strength again, which made her happy. She would lean on many scriptures to help her, and Philippians 4:13 would be one of them: “I can do all this through Christ who strengthens me.”

Like many of us, Mary dreamed of a life filled with love and family, much like the ones we read about in storybooks. But her dreams were shattered when her first husband had an affair, and their marriage ended. This left Mary with deep trust issues and bitterness, a feeling that resonates with many of us when our dreams don't match reality. It's a struggle we all face, but it's also a journey we can overcome. Years later, Mary's journey took a new turn after meeting Michael.

Did Michael bring Mary the desires of her heart?

Throughout life’s journey, we all have dreams. They are the sparks of hope that light our way, guiding us towards our aspirations. Some dreams become a beautiful reality, while others, sadly, remain just dreams. But the power of dreaming, the power of hope, is universal and ever-inspiring. It's a reminder that we can overcome any obstacle as we put our faith and hope in Jesus Christ, and He will turn our dreams into reality.

How do we navigate our daily lives while desiring to be our best, even in times of conflict and discouragement? In times when nothing makes sense anymore?

As I am sure you have, I have experienced many disappointments. I have struggled to understand why these things were happening to me. However, looking back, I have complete confidence in how I overcame any obstacle given to me. Let’s stop looking behind and continue to look forward, knowing that all things work together for our good and will only make us stronger. Jesus is the beginning and the end. He has great plans for us!

Philippians 4:13 gives us hope. “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Jesus is my strength, and in all I have endured, the good and the not-so-good, as I seek to read my Bible daily, He always gives me the strength to persevere through the journey He has given me, and He is always there to encourage me in His word.

I have failed at this, and fear has consumed me at times, but He is always there to show me the truth, reminding me of His word, and encouraging me to keep walking in the faith as He carries me.

He never leaves me. He will never leave you, either.

Isaiah 41:10 tells us:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

I pray today that when life gets hard or we don’t know what direction to take, we open our Bibles, read God’s word, and seek to find our direction and strength in our Savior, Jesus Christ. I pray that we encourage each other as we walk through our most incredible days ahead and long to hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

If you haven’t read my books, WHEN JESUS CALLS, or its sequel, WHEN JESUS LEADS, they share my journey of faith, hope, and perseverance, and are based on true life experiences. The pages are filled with inspiring stories and biblical references that have uplifted many readers. If you're seeking encouragement and spiritual growth, I invite you to visit my website at marthagayle.com and order your copy today. I pray that God will continue to fill our hearts with His joy and peace as we walk through this journey together.

Thank you for reading and allowing me to share my heart with you. Your support means the world to me, and I am genuinely grateful for it!

Always Believe and Never Give Up! - John 11:40

Martha Gayle ❤