Keep Striking the Ground

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." — 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV)

Discouragement is one of the enemy's most effective tools. When we feel discouraged, we lose enthusiasm for the work God has given us. We start to question, “Why am I doing this?” or “Is this even worth it?”

The Bible gives us a clear example of how discouragement can limit God's work in our lives. In 2 Kings 13:14-19, King Joash of Israel was facing a crisis. His father was gone, the Syrian army was looming, and his trusted spiritual advisor, Elisha, was on his deathbed. Overwhelmed, Joash went to Elisha for guidance.

Elisha told Joash to take a bow and some arrows, and under the prophet's instruction, Joash shot an arrow through the east-facing window. Elisha declared, “The arrow of the Lord’s deliverance and the arrow of deliverance from Syria.” This was a symbol of God’s promise of victory.

But then Elisha gave another instruction: “Take the arrows... Strike the ground.” Joash obeyed, but he struck the ground only three times and stopped. Elisha was angry and rebuked him, saying, “You should have struck five or six times; then you would have struck Syria till you had destroyed it! But now you will strike Syria only three times.”

Joash’s half-hearted response revealed his discouragement and lack of faith. He stopped short, and because of this, the victory God wanted to give him was incomplete.

How often do we do the same? We start strong, but when the results don’t come quickly, or obstacles arise, we lose heart. We stop striking the ground. But the Bible reminds us in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” God calls us to keep going, even when it’s hard, trusting that He is working behind the scenes.

Discouragement can cause us to hold back, but God wants us to give Him everything, trusting that He will bring the victory. Like the story of Joash teaches us, don’t stop striking the ground. Keep praying, keep pressing, and keep trusting.

God calls us to keep going, even when we don’t see immediate results. The work He has called us to requires perseverance. Whether it’s parenting, ministry, or simply being faithful in your daily walk, don’t give up. Keep striking the ground. Trust that God is working, even when you can’t see it.

Reflection Question: Are there areas in your life where you’ve stopped short because of discouragement? How can you trust God to help you press on?

Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve stopped short in my obedience to You. Help me to be steadfast and immovable, trusting that you are working even when I can’t see it. Give me the strength to keep striking the ground in faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Adapted from: "God's Answer for Discouragement": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/zmvsph4/8-god-s-answer-for-discouragement