I bought a bicycle like they use in Spin Classes at the gym.  You know, the classes where all the participants look like they’ve been chiseled out of granite?  Yep, I have that bike.  It’s actually pretty hilarious as my body feels like it was formed from a large box of Play Doh.  As I ride, I watch a Spin Class video and I think the instructor can read my mind.  Just when I am thinking I might stop she says, “Don’t quit now!  You can do this!” So I keep going.  When I think I am not going to make it to the end, she says, “Come on, you’re an athlete, show us how it’s done!” (For some reason Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Glory Days’ is going through my mind…) I’m happy to say with the extra encouragement I usually make it through the workout, but I keep hoping it’s going to get a little easier.

We have to keep going on the tough days of our lives too.  Fortunately, the Bible is rich in encouragement.  We need to grab ahold of all that support God has laid out for us.  Here’s some: “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” (2 Chronicles 15:7)  Or from Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”  Each of us has those tough times that last longer than they should.  Amazingly, we don’t have to keep moving in our own strength. “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.” (Isaiah 41:10)  Are the odds stacked against you? Listen closely, because God is saying, “Don’t quit now!  You can do this!”