Doing the Hard Thing in God’s Strength

by

Reading: Isaiah 37:14–17; Mark 8:1–10

Key Verse: Isaiah 37:16 — “O LORD of Heaven’s Armies, God of Israel, you are enthroned between the mighty cherubim! You alone are God of all the kingdoms of the earth. You alone created the heavens and the earth.”

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Why do we hesitate—or even resist—doing hard things? Whether it’s a difficult task, exercise, or a hard conversation, we often believe the lie: “I can’t do this because…” Fear of consequences holds us back. We worry someone may be offended, upset, or (for me) maybe they will leave the mission field. Conflict feels too heavy, so we avoid the hard thing.

But God calls us to lay our burdens before Him, trust Him, and then step forward in His strength to do what He asks.

Scripture Insight:

  • In Isaiah 37:14-17 Hezekiah was faced with Sennacherib’s threats. He was telling the people lies. “God is not able to save you.” “My army is stronger than God.” Your leader is deceiving you.” etc. But, instead of believing those lies, and shrinking back in discouragement, Hezekiah took the letter, spread it out before the Lord, and prayed. He acknowledged God’s sovereignty and asked Him to act. Hezekiah didn’t give into fear and the lies it produces, he entrusted his fear to God.
  • The story of the feeding of the 4000 in Mark 8:1-10 is another good example. When the disciples saw a need they couldn’t meet, Jesus showed them that He could work through what little they had. He multiplied their offering to feed thousands. The lesson? When the task feels impossible, Christ can use us as instruments if we simply bring Him what we have, and believe Him to use us.

Together, these passages remind us: the hard thing is not ours to carry alone. God reigns, and Christ works through us.

Application:

  • Lay your hard task before God, as Hezekiah did.
  • Trust that Christ can multiply your small offering into something sufficient.
  • Step forward in obedience, even when fear whispers “you can’t.”
  • Remember: the hard thing is often the place where God shows His strength most clearly (2 Cor 12:9-10)

Prayer:

Lord, when I hesitate to do the hard thing, remind me that You are enthroned above all. Teach me to lay my fears before You, trust Your strength, and step forward in obedience. Use me as Your instrument to meet the needs You place before me.

Reflection Questions:

  • What hard thing are you avoiding right now?
  • How can you lay it before God in prayer, as Hezekiah did?
  • What small offering can you bring to Christ, trusting Him to multiply it?
  • How might God be inviting you to step forward in His strength today?

Leave a Reply