For those who know me, I am what you call a sports fanatic. As a sports fan, one of my favorite times of the year is around the corner. Every year, I enjoy the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, also known as March Madness.

With March Madness fast approaching, I think back to former college basketball coach Jim Valvano. In 1992, Coach Valvano was diagnosed with Cancer. During the 1993 ESPY Awards, Coach Valvano was awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage Award. The award presented to individuals in sports who show courage during adverse times. During his acceptance speech, he said, “Don’t give up…don’t ever give up.” His words still resonate with me to this day.

It is a simple yet powerful message. There are times I find myself wanting to give up. This message from Coach Valvano is an excellent reminder for us all. As Christians in a fast-paced society, we have a place to turn when things get tough.

Life can change in an instant and unexpectedly. When this happens, what do we do? Where do we turn?  In the book of Jeremiah, we find comfort in knowing there is a plan for each of us.

Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Things do not always go according to plan. There are times we feel the weight of the world is on our shoulders. At times, we may feel we have nowhere to turn. When we feel like throwing in the towel, we need to remember God is in control and cast our burdens to him.

Psalm 55: 22: “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”

2 Corinthians 12:9: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

The way to never give up is to realize we are not alone and must rely on God’s strength. We must never give up.