There are times in life when every day feels like a battle. The road is tough, the climb is steep, and the burden is heavy. And there are times when we are tempted to throw in the towel.
Maybe you are feeling that today.
It is in those moments we search everywhere and anywhere for encouragement.
I was recently touched by a simple line from a simple poem. The verse, written by Edgar A Guest is simply this:
Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.
You can read the entire poem here.
But that one simple phrase leaps off the page. It is needed because it is a powerful, but gentle nudge to never give up, to never quit. To keep going, even when the going gets tough.
And we all need to be reminded of it from time-to-time.
If these are words that you need to hear today, I want to offer them to you.
Our most meaningful work in life will always be difficult. No matter what the quick-fix industry and self-proclaimed experts want to tell you, there is no easy way to achieve the most fulfilling pursuits that truly matter in life.
The most significant matters in ours lives will always require our fullest attention and resolve. There is no coasting towards the things in life that matter. All important goals require work.
Because of this, this journey of life requires not just the courage to start but the perseverance to keep going, every day, especially through the toughest trials we face.
Sometimes we need to rest, to catch our breath, to regroup, and that’s okay. Sometimes that is the most important thing we can do. What’s important is that we get back up, we keep moving, and we never give up.
If you need encouragement today to keep working and striving, rest if you must, but don’t give up.
To the parents watching as their child takes a path they hadn’t hoped for… rest if you must, but keep fighting for what’s best for them—and always continue with your love and your prayers.
To those wrestling with health challenges… rest if you must, but never give up on yourself and the opportunity for health or impact still in front of you.
To those caring for a loved one as they near the end of their life… rest if you must, but keep serving faithfully and finding joy in every moment you can while together.
To those working to change your lives for the better…. rest if you must, but know that breaking old habits and behaviors takes time, attention, and renewed discipline every morning.
To anyone who is trying to pick up the pieces of their life shattered by someone else… rest if you must, but find hope in knowing there is still a new and brighter future ahead of you.
To anyone who is fighting for a better world, for justice, kindness, and change, your path is essential. Rest if you must… but know that your efforts create ripples of change that extend far beyond what you can see. So keep believing, keep advocating, keep fighting.
To those of you working to create a new culture for your home and family… rest if you must, but don’t quit. Set the example, celebrate little wins, and know the change is worth the effort.
Simplifying our lives by removing distractions—whether it’s excess stuff, unnecessary commitments, or negative influences—can make our journey a bit easier. But it can never remove all burdens and obstacles.
We all face hard times, we all feel weighed down at moments. But we also all have the opportunity to persevere. Your efforts, your struggles, and your resilience inspire more people than you know.
You are not alone.
If you need to find encouragement in your life today, I hope you find it here. Because we are all cheering for you.
Rest if you must, but don’t quit.
Jeanne says
I appreciate the sentiment, but it offers rest as a potential need, rather than as an absolute need. Rest WHEN you must. Still, it is necessary to give some caregivers any and all permission to care for themselves without feeling that they have abandoned their goals.
Ashley J Reina says
Thank you for this it’s a beautiful piece.
I’m going to print it and put it on my board to reread often.
Life can be tough… Growth happens in the trenches.
Ashley G says
I have been on a long journey healing from codependency and PTS. Every day I am gaining ground, trying to stay focused and optimistic, but lately I am tired. I needed to needed to hear this! You don’t know me, but you cared enough to write this article. Thank you so very much! God bless!
Debbie Long says
I am reading this a couple days after I left work early, contemplating never going back. I am still thinking a change is best but the rest helped and even though I may quit that position I won’t quit striving for better for myself.
Chris Halbohm says
It is inspiring to see the point here that many people miss – that our most important tasks in life often come with distractions and disruptions – difficulties. This is often a sure sign you are on a right track. Thanks Joshua.
Ellen Johnston says
I truly enjoyed reading this. I have to say that it spoke to me. I have multiple physical health issues at this time that are weighing me down. So much pain. My soul is telling me not to give up but I am struggling. Your message of Rest, but don’t give up is exactly what I needed to see. That’s a true motivator, especially for those of us elderly folks. Thank you for sharing this message.
James Lobley says
I’m a widower with two young kids. I wake up every morning, pray for peace and get my workout in. I have my moments when I want to throw in the towel, but I “don’t stay there”. Get up and get moving. Someone always has it worse. Make your life as simple as possible. Someone needs you and you need them. God bless!
Donna in KC says
This is one of the best columns you have ever written Joshua. I sent it to several people who are struggling; one unexpectedly lost her spouse; one is battling cancer; etc. I too have some health issues I am dealing with. Thank you for writing it and the much needed encouragement.
Renee says
Such an encouragement. I really needed it! .Thank you!