Ever feel worn out and weary? Tired of being told just to put your chin up? We have all heard the phrase, “when times are tough the tough get going”, but this girl has learned that the tough—those who survive life’s hard spots—only do so because of a dependence on One greater. Being tough is not about a hardened heart, but a sensitive one that cries out and draws near to God.
The toughest soul who ever walked this earth was Jesus Christ. He chose to suffer on our behalf . . . with joy.
When things get tough, the tough cry out. I have found it is in admitting my weakness, my inability to overcome, that I find victory and the strength to keep going. This admission of my weakness is not as one without hope, but as one who knows the One who has already overcome—my confidence is in Him.
The world offers various solutions or techniques to help us toughen up, but these methods just leave us discouraged with a hardened heart.
Optimism for a good outcome is not real strength. No, there is a hope that is deeper than that. And it is dependent on God alone.
Pride and will power will only humble us in the end. We aren’t enough. God is.
Depending on self is a sure plan for failure. So, let’s press on, friends. Not in our own strength, but in His. Our God is for us. And His promises are certain:
“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.” —Proverbs 18:10 (ESV)
“For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.” —Psalm 61:3 (NIV)
When times are tough, the tough cry out to God. And they are helped. The secret to being tough is found when we cry out. Sounds counterintuitive to the world, like giving up. But it is beautiful surrender to the One Who is our refuge and able to handle whatever we face.