Get up and go

"But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe." Acts 14:20

Did you know that yesterday was National Get Up Day? And if you've never heard of it before (I hadn’t), National Get Up Day on February 1 is an opportunity to share inspiring stories of perseverance; it’s a reminder to pick ourselves up when we’ve fallen and give it (whatever it may be) another go! The day was actually inspired by figure skaters who have to learn very quickly that falling down is an unavoidable part of training and that learning to get up repeatedly is the key to success. This day isn’t just about skating, though. It’s about celebrating that Get Up spirit that applies to every aspect of life and inspiring others. 

And if anyone had that Get Up Spirit, it was the Apostle Paul. In fact, the Bible tells us that while Paul and Barnabas were preaching the Gospel in Lystra, some Jews who came from Antioch and Iconium persuaded the the crowd to stone Paul and then drag him outside the city (thinking he was deceased). "But, after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city." Wow! Not only did Paul miraculously get up after being left for dead though... the very next day, he and Barnabas preached in Derbe, gaining a large number of followers. They then returned to Lystra, the very place Paul had been stoned and thrown out of, to strengthen and encourage the disciples. And all this happened because one man had learned to get up... even when it appeared impossible.

So when life knocks you down - and you can be sure that it will in more times, and in more ways, than you could ever imagine - remember the words of Vince Lombardi, "It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up." You see, it's only when we "get up" that people around us will want to know the secret of our strength. And it's then my friend, that you and I can tell them about the Lord, the One who provides the fortitude, resilience and backbone to overcome any situation. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the strength, determination and courage we need to get up from anything that has knocked us down. Lord, remind us that you never promised us a life free from tests, trials and tribulations but that you promised to always be with us through them. May others come to know you God by the resilience and faith we display when life doesn't go as planned. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

The Comeback - Danny Gokey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvr64VsNT-s