When Life Hits You Hard

My friend Joel has a great post I think you'd be interested in. Here's the link. Joel remarks about plowing straight ahead and not looking back. His message really hit home to me. I hope it touches you as well. Joel is theologically on track and his insight is second to none.

After reading Joel's post I thought about the movie "Rocky Balboa." I watched that movie again today. It's more than just about a boxer trying to make a comeback. It's about a man trying to let go of the beast inside him and be set free from the past. It went right along with what my friend Joel was saying on his blog.

Rocky Talks To His Son



There's a scene where Rocky's son doesn't want his father to fight again. He feels somewhat embarrassed that hid dad would step into the ring. Rocky says some pretty tough words to his son, but in a loving way. I couldn't help but be touched by the words in this scene. Below is a clip of that monologue Rocky delivers so well.

You know, life does hit us hard at times, doesn't it? None of us are immune from setbacks, disappointments and heartache. I guess it comes down to the very question of what do we do when it happens. Rocky gives the answer. And, greater yet...The Lord said to be of good cheer, for he has overcome the world. Plus, we are in Christ and we ultimately overcome too, don't we?

There have been times we all have probably said, "I can't take it anymore, I give up." But, we continue, we go on. The sad matter is this question at hand. What do people do that don't know the Lord? Who do they turn to in their time of sorrow? Jesus said that his yoke was easy and his burden is light. We could find rest in him. I need to remind myself of that daily. When life throws me those punches, I need to remember that Jesus took the biggest punch of all. It seemed all over when he cried out, "Father, it is finished." Oh, but that wasn't the end. And...it isn't for us. I need to remind myself of that on a daily basis. Believe me, I can write these nice words, but living them out becomes the tough part. But, with the Lord, we overcome. So, for this new year, when life hits you hard, go to the one that took the toughest blows and can comfort like no one else can. May the peace of Christ be with you all!

Rocky Speaks