Woody Hayes would not be pleased!

You remember Woody, don't you? He was the revered coach of the Ohio State University football team, and he would not be happy with this weeks loss to LSU in the championship game. Woody was renowned for his coaching skills. He was also known for some of his quotes. For instance, he once said, "Paralyze resistance with persistence." That's pretty good.

Nehemiah was another great leader. You can read about him in the book named for him in your Old Testament. He led the people of God in a difficult time, and stood firm even when surrounded by enemies.

In one particular instance, he was advised to flee into the temple to avoid being killed by the enemies of God. His response showed true faith and rock-like leadership:

"Should a man like me run away? Or should one like me go into the temple to save his life? I will not go!" (Nehemiah 6:11)

• The next time the troubles of life crowd in on you, and you feel like fleeing - remember Nehemiah.
• The next time the world feels like it's going to crush the life out of you - remember Nehemiah.
• The next time you face disappointment or despair in your Christian walk - remember Nehemiah.

He knew what we all must learn - a key to success in serving God is longevity - never giving up - never surrendering. Paul said it like this, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9)


In other words, "Paralyze resistance with persistence."