People react differently to adversity.
Some folks feel overwhelmed and give up, thinking they will never overcome the struggle.
Some folks face problems head on and move forward with a new vision and courage.
We see examples of this quite often in the news.
Many wartime military personnel return home injured and maimed. Some give up; others accept what has happened and move forward.
Many of these people may be just names or faces to a grateful nation. Still, they are human beings, with titles like son, daughter, husband, wife, father and mother.
Celebrities facing hardships might attract particular attention. In 1995, actor Christopher Reeve’s career was cut short by a fall from a horse that paralyzed him neck down.
What did he say?
"Don’t give up. Don’t lose hope. Don’t sell out."
Those who can develop a positive outlook can recognize that what used to be normal isn’t anymore. A new normal, embraced with ferocity, instills inspiration.
Don’t ever give up.
Sometimes, you may want to throw in the towel, turn around and walk away.
Sometimes, you may feel hopeless when things around you seem bleak.
Sometimes, you may want to sell out, give up or do whatever you want, regardless of the consequences.
However, remain strong. Tomorrow is a new day. God’s blessings are all around you, even when you don’t feel them.
It takes just baby steps to move forward. Being willing to do so shows there is hope. And where there is hope, you will hold on to what you know is right.
Remember Psalm 27: "The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts; so I am helped, and my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him."
The Rev. Mark Broadhead is Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church of Crestview’s pastor.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: FROM THE PULPIT: Stay strong, despite adversity