Today, we’re talking about determination. Life is full of challenges, setbacks, and moments that make us want to quit. But God calls us to press on, to run the race with endurance, and to trust Him even when the road gets tough.
“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” — Galatians 6:9
Maybe you’ve felt like giving up on a dream, a calling, or even a prayer you’ve been waiting on for years. But God is faithful, and today we’re going to talk about the power of determination and why perseverance is worth it.
Pushing Through Obstacles
Pushing through obstacles means that we are being strengthened in the struggle.
“For the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.” — Proverbs 24:16
Determination doesn’t mean never failing; it means getting back up. It all depends on our hope and determination through the failing. If we are confident in our ability and in what the Lord can do, then we are more likely to get up and try again or simply move forward.
God strengthens us in our struggles, not just in our victories.
When you face setbacks, remind yourself: “This is not the end of my story.”
How has God helped you rise again after a failure?
When the Journey Gets Tough
“Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” — 2 Timothy 2:3
Paul understood hardship but never lost focus on the mission. In fact Paul understood hardship but never lost focus on the mission. In this scripture, he is telling Timothy to go and teach, to be on mission as a soldier of Christ.
Determination means staying the course even when it’s difficult.
Make a list of reasons why you started—let it fuel your endurance. We need reminders of why we set out on the journey to do what we were called to do.
What’s one thing that keeps you going when you want to quit?
Trusting God’s Timing
“The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” — Exodus 14:14
Sometimes, we try to force things instead of trusting God’s process.
Determination isn’t just about action—it’s also about patience.
My son was putting something together and following the instructions, but a few times he had to remove a part and put the correct piece on. Even though he read the instructions and understood the general idea, there were a few pieces that were similar but could only go in one way. We need to remember that God has the official manual. Though we think we know what’s coming, we might have the wrong piece. So, we need to seek the Lord, be patient, and be willing to wait on Him.
Pray: “Lord, help me trust Your timing and not rush ahead.”
Is there something you need to surrender to God instead of forcing?
We’ve all had moments where we feel like quitting—whether it’s a job, a calling, or even a season of prayer that feels unanswered. But God calls us to run our race with endurance.
“Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” — Hebrews 12:1
This race isn’t about speed; it’s about faithfulness. So, let’s talk about how we can press on with determination, no matter what comes our way.
Running the Race with Endurance & Keeping Your Eyes on the Prize
“I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize.” — Philippians 3:14
Paul’s focus was always on eternity—he didn’t get distracted by hardship.
We are easily distracted people, and we live in a “right now” world, so our focus drifts easily. What we set our eyes on determines how well we endure. When we know that God is the one we need to keep our eyes on, our mission will stay on track.
Keep Scripture visible—write it down as a reminder of your mission.
What’s one thing you need to shift your focus away from to stay determined?
Overcoming Discouragement
“David found strength in the Lord his God.” — 1 Samuel 30:6b
Even David faced moments of deep discouragement—but he turned to God.
David spent much of his young life running and hiding from people who wanted to kill him. Yet, we read in the Psalms his songs and prayers, where he continually turned to God no matter what.
When we feel like giving up, we need to refuel our spirit in His presence. Cry out to God in prayer and in praise—no matter what.
Take time to worship today—let God refresh your strength.
When have you found unexpected strength in God during a hard time?
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10
I watched a video of a boy who got a ball stuck in a net protecting the lights on a gym ceiling. The ball was stuck, so he decided to use his shoes to get the ball out, but then his shoes got stuck. Next, he grabbed a water bottle and threw it at the ball and shoes—one shoe and the ball fell, but now the bottle was stuck. So, he used his remaining shoe to get the bottle and the other shoe down. Eventually, he hit everything just right, and they all fell from the net.
The determination this kid showed was so inspiring. He didn’t give up. And when we’re on a journey—no matter what we’re doing—we sometimes feel like everything is up in the air, and we’re not making progress. But know that God is at work. Eventually, everything will fall into place the way God wants, and it will be for your good.
Remember: God is with you, even when the journey feels lonely.
What’s one moment where you saw God move after you chose to persevere?
We’ve talked about pushing through obstacles and running the race, but what does it look like to live daily with determined faith? It’s easy to have bursts of motivation, but God calls us to a faith that lasts.
“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation.” — James 1:12
Determination isn’t just about our goals—it’s about staying faithful to God in every season.
Walking in Determined Faith
Staying Faithful in the Small Things
“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.” — Luke 16:10a
Determination starts in the little daily decisions.
God honors those who are faithful in small steps.
Be diligent in small acts of obedience today.
How can you show faithfulness in the little things right now?
Relying on God’s Strength
“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. — 2 Corinthians 12:9
Determination doesn’t mean doing everything on your own.
God’s strength carries us when our own runs out. I am thankful for this because there have been many times in life when I thought I couldn’t take one more step and wanted to give up. But praying and asking God to give me strength helped me refuel and make it through.
Where do you need to rely more on God’s strength today?
Pray for God’s strength instead of relying only on your own.
Finishing Strong
“Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
Determination is about finishing the race, not just starting well.
We are called to walk in faith, knowing that God equips us. He is with us wherever we go, and because of that, we can rely on the encouragement that we are not alone.
Encourage someone else today to keep going in their faith journey.
How can you inspire others to keep pressing on?
Determination isn’t about never struggling—it’s about never giving up. Whether you’re in a season of waiting, facing a tough challenge, or just trying to stay faithful in everyday moments, remember this:
God is with you. He strengthens you. And He has a purpose for every step you take.
I want to leave you with this:
“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” — Psalm 37:23
Keep moving forward in faith, knowing that God is leading the way.
Keep pressing on, keep trusting, and keep walking in God’s strength.