I’ve thought many times about how different my life would be if I’d given up when I wanted to. My story could’ve become something like, “Yeah, I used to think I was supposed to be a pastor, but I gave it a shot and things didn’t work out. That’s just how it goes.”

I’m certain you’ll have to wrestle with occasional challenges in different seasons of your life: a boss you don’t think you can stand another day, a relationship that’s suddenly hurting, a dream that’s running out of resources, a move that’s failed your expectations. When you face difficulties, it’s natural to reconsider your huge, life-altering decisions. You might ask questions like these.

Should I take my chances, quit this job, and look for something else?
After my spouse’s affair—is it time to move on?
Am I really cut out to run a business? Should I cut my losses before things get any worse?
In each of these examples—and with most major life choices—you’re at a crucial fork in the road, and it’s time to decide: should I stay or walk away?

Am I choosing to give up because it’s the right thing or because it seems like leaving would be easier?

Often the best and most rewarding decision you can make is to stay the course even when it would be simpler to turn and walk away. I’m not saying you will never need to walk away. But before you decide, ask yourself, “Am I choosing to give up because it’s the right thing or because it seems like leaving would be easier?” Sometimes the greatest act of faith is faithfulness, staying where you are planted. Years from now you may look back and thank God that you decided to stay when it would have been easier to go.

Remember, God made you in His image and He is the author and finisher of your story. You are not a quitter. You are a finisher.

Pray: God, is there anything I’m trying to walk away from that You want me to stay and finish? Will You give me Your strength to press on? Amen.

Isaiah 40:27‭-‬31 MSG “Why would you ever complain, O Jacob, or, whine, Israel, saying, “God has lost track of me. He doesn’t care what happens to me”? Don’t you know anything? Haven’t you been listening? God doesn’t come and go. God lasts. He’s Creator of all you can see or imagine. He doesn’t get tired out, doesn’t pause to catch his breath. And he knows everything, inside and out. He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts. For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall. But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind.”

Galatians 6:9‭-‬10 MSG “So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.”

Matthew 11:28-30 MSG “Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis. Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me. For all that I require of you will be pleasant and easy to bear.”