Strengthen the feeble hands – the best is yet to come

Felix Appiah encourages believers to stand firm in difficult seasons, trust God’s promises, and persevere in faith, knowing that His purposes will prevail and the best is yet to come.

There are moments in life when giving up feels like the easiest option. Unexpected challenges and obstacles can weigh so heavily that walking away seems not only tempting but reasonable. Indeed, wisdom sometimes calls us to release certain pursuits. Yet there are also seasons when we must stand firm, contend, and fight for the vision God has placed on our hearts.

Scripture reminds us: “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back… But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved,” (Hebrews 10:38-39, NIV). The writer to the Hebrews exhorts us not to retreat when life grows difficult, but to live by faith and trust in God’s promises.

Jesus himself warned that trouble is inevitable in this world (John 16:33). These pressures can easily dampen our passion for God and the assignments he has entrusted to us. This is why Paul urged Timothy to “stir up the gift of God” within him.

Like Timothy, we are called to strengthen our weak hands, take courage, and press forward in obedience. As Paul reminds us: “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind,” (2 Timothy 1:6-7, NKJV).

Nicky Gumbel, developer of the Alpha Course, once observed: “The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of convenience, but where they stand in moments of challenge, crisis, and controversy.”

His words echo the call to perseverance. Faith is a precious gift, but it will inevitably be tested. As James teaches, “the testing of your faith produces perseverance,” (James 1:3, NIV). A faith that has never been tried cannot be trusted. When doubts arise, anchor yourself in the truth of God’s Word. Recall his faithfulness and the countless times he has carried you through. Confidence in Christ rests not on our strength but on his unchanging character and unfailing love. His promises remain steadfast.

Life’s challenges may tempt us to retreat, but faith calls us to endure. Strengthen your feeble hands, steady your heart, and remember that THE BEST IS YET TO COME. God’s promises are unshakable, his love unfailing, and his purposes unstoppable. Stand firm, for your perseverance will bear fruit in due season.

Principles to remember when you feel like giving up

God never breaks his promises

Hold tightly to your confidence in him. Let it shape your prayers, worship, and daily walk. You are his beloved child, and nothing can separate you from his love. Even when circumstances seem bleak, God is working behind the scenes. Reflect on past deliverances - he has not changed. He is capable of restoring more than what was lost.

Look beyond what you see

Fix your eyes on Jesus and trust his faithfulness. He is worthy of your confidence and will guide you through every challenge. As you hold fast, your faith will grow stronger. Cultivate gratitude for his goodness, even in seasons of uncertainty.

No condition is permanent

Winter does not last forever. Spring will come, summer will follow, and the harvest will arrive. Growth often begins in seasons of uncertainty. Do not allow the enemy to rob you of the prize ahead. Every season has a purpose - some for growth, some for rest, some for rebuilding, and others for harvesting. Even uncomfortable seasons teach patience, resilience, and the art of letting go.

Be flexible in God’s hands

Remain open to his leading. Do not confine God to familiar patterns. Sometimes obedience requires doing what is right even when it is difficult. If he does not remove the fire, he will walk through it with you. Trust his ability to make a way in unexpected places.

Do not walk alone

There is strength in unity. Surround yourself with people who will stand with you in prayer. Build partnerships and remain connected. A single stick burns briefly, but together they burn long and strong. Community sustains perseverance.

Keep your momentum

Though the landscape of our world may be shifting, God remains faithful. The harvest is still plentiful, and the Spirit is breathing new life into his church. You can make a difference. As the saying goes, “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you’ve never spent the night in a room with a mosquito.” God is always seeking willing vessels. Revival can begin with you - be present where the spark ignites.

Remember the real battle

Our struggles are not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness. Resist the enemy in prayer and faith. Do not be ignorant of his schemes. Though opposition may arise, God always wins. Victory belongs to him, and in Christ, we share in that triumph.

This article first appeared in Direction Magazine. For further details, please click here.