No Retreat, No Surrender!

Back in the 80s, karate movies were super popular! We had classics like The Karate Kid series, Blood Sport, The Last Dragon, and my absolute favorite, No Retreat, No Surrender. What’s great about these movies is that they always focus on encouragement. The main characters always had to deal with tough challenges, trials, and even some persecution. But they never gave up! They kept pushing forward and doing good. They didn’t just learn karate; they also learned the power of perseverance. Movies are meant to entertain, but sometimes they can really make a difference in our lives.

We can learn a lot from these movies. Did they give up when they faced challenges? No! We often believe that following Lord Jesus makes our lives magically easier. But that’s not the truth. Let’s be honest, and let me be clear: YOU WILL FACE CHALLENGES! Don’t give up, don’t get irritated, and don’t get tired! We are called to the challenges of life because the glory of the Heavenly Father will be revealed. Here’s what scripture tells us:

Galatians 6:9 (NLT) So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Hey Ralph Macchio, you know, the Karate Kid who took a beating in all three movies never gave up! So, why should you? I know it’s just a movie, but seriously, you shouldn’t give up. So many people give up when things get tough. By giving up, you’re giving up on the promise of the Heavenly Father. One of my favorite promises is 1st Peter 5:10, which says, “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” I’m not here to promise instant change. What I’m saying is that the Heavenly Father is faithful in all aspects of life.

As I conclude, I want to share something with you. The Heavenly Father is all-knowing and all-seeing. He is aware of every challenge you face and cares deeply for each of us. By giving up, you are essentially giving up on Him. The Heavenly Father refuses to abandon us. I have a picture in my office that reads, “May I never forget on my best day that I still need God as desperately as I did on my worst.” There is no retreat, no surrender!

Next Step:

In what areas of your life are you feeling weary or discouraged in doing good? How can you find motivation to continue, and what steps can you take to nurture your perseverance and faith, knowing that your labor is not in vain?

God bless you, God keep you. God loves you and I love you too!