Galatians 6:9 NKJV ⁹ And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
It was bone-chilling cold outside. Fortunately, we had heat inside to keep us warm. Unsure how long our good fortune would last. The weather forecast called for wind and ice. So, I proceeded to the generator outside with the operator’s manual in hand.
A year had passed since I had tried to start the generator. So, after a quick review of the instructions, I began flipping switches and pressing the starter button.
After five full minutes of trying to start that contrary machine, I was only able to get a whirring sound from the starter.
I paused, took a few deep breaths, and proceeded to go back at it. Another five or so minutes passed, and I was only successful at getting a puff of dark gray smoke from the exhaust.
It appeared we would be left in the cold with the storm approaching. But as they say – The third time is a charm. With a pop and a roar, the generator spewed out a stream of black smoke, and then started. We were assured of backup power if we needed heat during the coming storm.
We were blessed in more ways than one that day. The worse part of the storm passed over us; we didn’t lose our power, and that generator started even though we didn’t need it.
One thing for sure, I won’t wait another year before I start that generator. Some things have to be used consistently to insure that they are available when they are needed.
Urban legend has it that if you don’t use your gifts, you will lose them. If gifts are anything like that generator, that tale may be urban, but not a legend.
Do not lose heart… Keep pressing on, we will reap if we do not lose heart.
Heavenly Father, today I stand on your promises, I will not quit. Amen.