Editor’s
journey
When
you feel like quitting
SPRINGFIELD, MO. — About
18 years ago I contemplated surrendering my minister’s license to accept
an opportunity in book publishing. I met with District Superintendent William
O. Vickery to discuss the matter.
“Hal,” he said, “I
sense God has a plan for your life that you don’t see. Let me encourage
you to be patient and remain faithful and give God an opportunity to open
doors.”
Waiting for God to open doors and
remove obstacles requires more discipline than taking matters into our own
hands. Quitting comes naturally; perseverance often demands immense faith
and courage.
Sooner or later, everyone wants
to quit in the face of opposition — when an employer makes
unrealistic demands, a pastor takes a stand with which you disagree,
or a friend or spouse treats you unfairly. But we need to recognize
that God uses hardships to build spiritual character and endurance.
Romans 5:3,4 says, “We also
rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
perseverance, character; and character, hope” (NIV).
James 1:12 says, “Blessed
is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test,
he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love
him.”
Making a transition may be God’s
plan, but pausing to ask these questions can confirm that:
1. Will your decision to quit violate
God’s Word?
2. Will you leave discord and resentment
in your wake?
3. Would you still quit if an obstacle
or source of frustration were removed?
4. Have you prayed daily that the
issues of concern would be resolved?
5. Have you exhausted
all other options?
6. Are you, your family members
and confidants at peace with your decision?
7. Is your motive for
quitting rooted in selfishness or selflessness?
8. Have you asked God if this is
a trial He wants you to endure?
9. What good and what harm will
occur if you persevere?
10. Have you completed the task
God set before you?
When our future is uncertain and
the path isn’t clear, we’re tempted to turn back. But in these
moments of uncertainty God faithfully whispers to our hearts, “Press
on. You can make it. Just follow Me.”
— Hal Donaldson
E-mail your comments to pe@ag.org.
