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Brothers and Sisters,
Have you ever given up? I can only imagine what went through your minds when thinking of the answer to the question of giving up. Was it a task that was too hard? Perhaps, it was a dream of doing better things, walking away from someone, or feeling like you don't have what it takes to finish what was started. 
Here it is just a week from closing out the first month of 2026. Many people have already given up because they didn't complete their 21 day fast or have broken a promise made to the Lord. Yes, life can be challenging, but a new day brings new opportunities.
Acts 21:8-14 tells the story of Apostle Paul's final visit with his friends as he prepared to journey towards Jerusalem. Paul was at the house of Philip the evangelist (Acts 6:1-7). You can be surrounded with people with genuine love for you and who really have your best interests at heart, but we all have a path to walk that the Lord requires of us. A prophet named Agabus came and prophesied, telling Paul of the fate that awaited him at Jerusalem. When you read about his friends' reactions upon hearing the prophecy, you understand the emotions of not wanting to lose a dear friend who has been a blessing in your life. But seemingly bad news has a way of getting us off our course in life. I say, 'seemingly" because look at where Phillip lived, Caesarea! God can put you in a place that prepares you for whatever life throws, especially if you know in  whom you believe (Matthew 16:13).
Today, are you ready to go all the way with the Lord, even when it appears the way is dark, dangerous, challenging, lonely, and unjust? It's not about your title or station in life, it's about knowing who the Lord is in your life! Paul said to his friends, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 21:13, RSV).
Find yourself dying every day for the One who died once for you to live life free! May the will of the Lord be done!
 
Peace and love,