Originally posted 4/24/2017

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” (2 Chronicles 15:7 NIV)

Recently, I was watching Nick Vujicic give a speech on YouTube titled, “Good Days & Bad Days.” Nick is an Australian Christian evangelist and motivational speaker who was born with tetra-amelia syndrome which is defined as an extremely rare autosomal recessive congenital disorder.  In other words, he was born with no arms or legs.  In his speech, Nick stated, “You may have arms and legs, but unless you know these three things: (1) who you are and what your value is; (2) what your purpose in life is; (3) and what your destiny is when you are done here; you are more disabled than I.”

During his childhood, Nick struggled with loneliness and depression; however, credits his triumph over his hardships to his faith in God as well as family, friends, and many others he has encountered during his life’s journey.  In 2005, Nick founded an international non-profit organization and ministry called “Life without Limbs.” Faced with immeasurable challenges, God has provided him the strength to overcome what others might call impossible.  Because of his ministry, “Life without Limbs,” God has used Nick to minister in many schools, churches, prisons, orphanages, hospitals, and stadiums, as well as personal encounters with people by sharing his personal story. Nick is an accomplished author, musician, actor, and his hobbies include fishing, painting, and swimming. (https://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/about-nick/bio/)

Watching Nick’s speech was so very timely for me.  With the added responsibilities of caregiving, I find it difficult to juggle all of my responsibilities.  I find it challenging to find my quiet moments of meditation that I have become so accustomed to. I oftentimes become frustrated because I can no longer meet my self-imposed deadlines.  I have to admit; I have been contemplating ending writing this blog; however, a few days ago, I heard a still, small voice say, “Don’t quit.”  I realize my life is not my own; my experiences are to be used to help and heal others.  If you keep living, life will always present you with challenges. I don’t know who might need this word today, but I encourage you–NEVER GIVE UP!  You just might find your purpose in those challenges. It was definitely through my tribulations that I found mine.  Whatever you are pursuing that may seem impossible, never give up! “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV).

In the words of gospel singer, Yolanda Adams, “Never Give Up”…

You need courage now
If you’re going to persevere.

To fulfill your divine purpose
You’ve gotta answer when you’re called.
So don’t be afraid to face the world against all odds.

Keep the dream alive; don’t let it die,

If something deep inside keeps inspiring you to try,

don’t stop and never give up; don’t ever give up on you;
Don’t give up!

If Nick Vujicic can overcome his physical disability and minister to thousands of people all over the world, so can we.  Nick’s motto is “God can use a life without limbs to show the world how to live a life without limits!”

I pray someone needed to hear this today. Be encouraged!

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