Stay the Course: Finding God's Strength in New Beginnings
Last weekend was a whirlwind of boxes, furniture, and God's faithfulness! My friends Corey and Mark were such a blessing, helping move all our stuff into our new home in Daphne, AL. Their friendship has been such a gift, and I'm so grateful they showed up when we needed hands to help! And God totally provided through Eric who handled all the hauling! Without Eric, we would have been completely stuck. I am so thankful for these men and how God used them in this big transition!
But it wasn't just the physical moving that touched me—God was speaking the entire time, too. We visited Celebration Church in Fairhope, and during Sunday morning's service, three powerful words stayed with me: "Stay the course!"
That's exactly what the Lord is saying to me in this season. Let's be honest—moving is HARD, and moving to plant a church is even HARDER! But this truth keeps resonating in my spirit: the God who calls also equips, provides, protects, and remains faithful in every situation. This knowledge helps me "stay the course" when I feel like quitting, when doubt creeps in, or when staying comfortable seems so much easier.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
This verse speaks directly to my situation right now. Just like eagles soaring effortlessly above the storms, when I put my hope in the Lord's timing and provision, He renews my strength for this journey. The physical exhaustion of moving and the emotional weight of planting a church might normally wear me down, but God promises supernatural endurance to those who hope in Him.
I'm learning that "staying the course" isn't about my own strength or determination—it's about receiving His daily renewal that enables me to keep running without growing weary, even when the path seems difficult. This promise reminds me that with God's strength, I can face the challenges of this new season without fainting or losing heart.
What About You?
Where in your life do you need to "stay the course" right now? What mountain seems too high to climb or what valley feels too dark to cross?
I want to encourage you today to place your hope firmly in the Lord. Identify that one area where you've been tempted to give up, and instead, commit it to prayer. Ask God specifically for His eagle's wings strength to soar above your circumstances. Then take one small step forward in faith this week.
Remember, the same God who called you is faithful to equip you for every challenge ahead. Let's journey together, hoping in Him, refusing to grow weary as we stay the course He has set before us.
What's helping you "stay the course" in your current season? I'd love to hear in the comments below!