God Never Gives Up on Us: Lessons from a Pastor on Crutches
This morning, I sat on a stool to preach next to the front pew, as I’m still on crutches, my body reminding me of its limitations. Yet, as I looked out at our congregation, I was filled with a deep conviction: God never gives up on us, no matter how many times we feel like quitting. My journey to the pulpit today, crutches and all after hip repair surgery, is a testament to His faithfulness, and I want to share how His unwavering love can encourage us all to keep going.
Life can make us feel like underdogs those who are overlooked, weighed down by challenges, or tempted to throw in the towel. Maybe you’ve felt it too, working through pain, doubt, or setbacks. But Scripture reminds us that God sees potential where the world sees weakness. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, He says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” God never gives up on His creation, turning our struggles into stories of victory. No matter how small or broken you feel, He sees you and is with you.
Preaching is never easy. And my crutches could’ve been an excuse to stay home, to let my limitations win. But I chose to show up, driven by a belief that God’s strength is enough. You probably have those moments to, like when pain, fear, or uncertainty tempts you to quit. Hebrews 12:1-2 urges us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.” Your “crutches”, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, are not the end of your race. God never gives up on you, and He gives you the strength to take one more step, even when it’s hard.
And I didn’t make it to the pulpit alone today. Your prayers, encouragement, and presence as a church family carried me. We’re not meant to run this race solo. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” When we feel like giving up, God sends His people to lift us. Look around you next Sunday, this is your team, ready to cheer you on. God never gives up on us, and He uses our community to keep us standing, crutches and all.
Romans 15:13 is my prayer for you, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” Whatever you’re facing, loss, uncertainty, or a season of “crutches”, God is cheering you on, promising a future where His plans prevail. Your story isn’t over; it’s a testimony in the making.
