One of my favorite songs from Third Day’s live albums starts with the lead singer, Max Powell, stating, “I can’t go on. I can’t go on” and then turning to a bandmate he asks “Can you go on?” After receiving an answer in the affirmative, the show continues.
This probably well-rehearsed skit is amusing and relatable because we’ve also been in situations where we feel like we can’t go on. Whether we’re playing a live concert or we’re faced with seemingly insurmountable life challenges, every one knows what it feels like to be spent. Some seem to get more than their fair share than others, but everyone gets to that place sometime. It’s the moment of complete helplessness, and if we allow, the moment of complete surrender.
“There are no athiests in the foxhole” is an old saying that demonstrates are susceptibility to turning towards God when our needs are mostly strongly felt. Many times however in turning to God in our moments of desperation, we ask for rescue and not for Him. We seek escape not His presence. We ask for relief and miss the opportunity for growth.
Luis Palau said, “When you face the perils of weariness, carelessness, and
confusion, don’t pray for an easier life. Pray instead to be a stronger man or woman of God.” May this always be our prayer.
