Core Scripture: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9).

Message: I didn’t want to get out of bed this morning.  Ever been there?  My little chihuahua had just snuggled up to my legs.  I was comfy.  The bed was warm.  But every Tuesday morning I try to make it to my F3 5:30 am workout.  So, I did what I knew I had to do.

I rolled out of bed.  I showed up. 

The workout was brutal, but I needed it.  My buddies pushed me through, and even though I wondered why I was out there at the crack of dawn sprinting up hills and doing flutter kicks in a parking lot, I focused on my victory in being there.

The warm shower felt divine.  I brushed off the speckled gravel that clung to my sweaty head, wondering what I should do on my last day off before returning to work.  I already knew the answer.  What do I try to do every Tuesday?  I write. 

Even though I lacked inspiration, I showed up. 

The rest of my day will hopefully proceed like normal.  I am meeting my friend Mark for coffee in a bit.  I will take my 14-year-old son out to practice driving.  I will rest a bit before my alarm goes off at midnight to return to work.  And I will come to my comfy chair, sip my coffee, to prepare myself for the new day.

I will give time to the Lord.  I will show up.

In this dry season I am encountering, I already know the enemy’s plan is to isolate me.  Satan wants me to stop showing up and crawl into a comfy cocoon of nothingness that does no good.  He hates it when I engage others in community.  And so, I press on.

I show up.     

Challenge: Wherever you feel like giving up in life, dig your heels in.  Show up. 

Bible study: Journal about or discuss how the following scripture connects with the theme of showing up.

• “Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day… For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-17)
• “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
• “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)

Just for fun: My 15-year-old son is on a trip to a lake with his friends.  He has been sending pictures to our group family chat.  The conversation the first day revolved around why he was supposedly flashing gang signs.  He denied they were gang signs.  My wife disagreed.  He finally confided, saying, “My hands look awkward if I don’t do something.”  Touche. 

Prayer: Lord, You show up for me every day.  Help me show up for You.  Amen.