Each of us have defining moments in our lives. These times show what we really believe and set the pace for how we might react in the future. Many defining moments come as a result of a setback. Setbacks come to each one of us, but it is how we react to them that propels our life forward or backward. There is no standing still. If we think we are standing still, we are lying to ourselves.

The bible tells us that problems and persecution are going to come to steal the word that has been planted in our hearts. Oftentimes, as we grow in our faith, we get blindsided. We do not see what’s coming and get knocked down. It isn’t because we have done something wrong. it’s Satan coming to steal what we believe from our heart. As a result of the setback, we begin to question God. No matter what takes place, we must make a decision that God’s word is true and God is faithful to perform it. See who the enemy really is….It’s Satan. He’s doing what he can to get us not to trust in the Lord.

This is why we need to constantly be building on our foundation. Don’t allow God’s word to become so familiar that it is taken for granted. David did this after he became king of Israel. He had many victories on and off the battlefield throughout his life, but at one point, he began to be lax in his responsibilities. One spring when he was supposed to go out to battle, he chose to stay home. During this time he had an affair with Bathsheba and killed her husband, Uriah.

This happens to us when we exercise our faith and win the battle. Before and after the victorious times, we are diligent about building ourselves up on our faith by spending time with God, reading the bible, confessing the word, etc. Sometimes we allow distractions and our victories to get in the way of continuing down this diligent path. We listen to thoughts that are contrary to God’s word. Little negative thoughts enter unchecked and before we know it, they’ve eaten away our faith and we make the decision that we are not going to believe what the bible says about a particular area of our life.

Over the years I’ve watched how many reacted to their setback. Some have been destroyed and some move forward. Those who moved ahead have been an inspiration to me. They tell me I can do it because they did. Their actions say God’s word is true no matter what the circumstances. Hebrews 10:23 tells us to hold tightly to our confession of faith without wavering because God is faithful. Verse 24 goes on to say that as we do, it provokes others to love and good deeds. In other words it encourages them to do the same. The writer of Hebrews also urges us to follow those who are inheriting God’s promises. As we follow those who are trusting God, we will be encouraged to do the same.

My exhortation is “Don’t give up. Continue to trust God. Watch him work in your life. He loves you more that you’ll ever know.”

Heb. 10:23 ΒΆ Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.

Heb. 10:24 Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.