What If Someone Saw the Fighter in You Before You Did?
There are days when I don’t feel like hiking, yet I still go. Over time, my walks have become more than exercise—they have become a place where I enter a creative flow, gather fresh ideas, and find wisdom for the challenges ahead. But one particularly difficult day, as I reached the top of a steep hill, struggling to catch my breath in the heat, a man from his yard called out and asked if I was finding the hike difficult. I answered honestly: it was a hard day for hiking, and the heat was making it difficult to appreciate even the beauty around me. Then, with a smile, he asked an unexpected question: “You’re a fighter, aren’t you?”
I’m still not sure what he saw in me that day. All he could see was someone exhausted and trying to catch her breath. Yet somehow, his words reached deeper than he could have known. I needed that reminder—that sometimes, when we feel weak, someone else may see the strength we have forgotten is there. While I had declined his offers for fresh fruit the other day, on that particular day, fresh plums from his garden and unexpected encouragement were just what I needed for a refreshing boost to continue hiking. So, I accepted some fresh fruit and resumed my walk, feeling strengthened and encouraged.
On that same day, the pastor was preaching based on Habakkuk 3:17-18:
Even if the fig tree does not blossom and there are no grapes on the vines, even if the olive crop fails and the fields yield no food, even if there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, I will still rejoice in the Lord and be joyful in God my Savior.
The sermon focused on the conclusion of the book and the beautiful poem on joy. In Hebrew, Habakkuk means to cling, and it's clear that this author was holding on to God during his struggles. Within the book, Habakkuk engages in a dialogue with God, posing questions about the unjust circumstances he and the righteous are experiencing. He voices his complaints and seeks answers. Eventually, God replies, explaining that even though Habakkuk is unaware of God's behind-the-scenes actions, God is actively working to fulfill His plans. Realizing this, Habakkuk finds encouragement and composes a beautiful poem about joy.
During my hike, I also found myself asking God questions and seeking answers about some recent events. It was then that a well-meaning neighbor's words gave me strength. He reminded me of my identity. I needed to hear that I am a warrior in prayer, persevering until I achieve victory, no matter how long it takes. A simple reminder of an identity brought strength to keep walking and keep praying.
As I reflected on the sermon we were privileged to hear that morning, I realized that just because I don't witness God actively working, it doesn't mean His plans aren't in motion. This understanding reminded me of past instances of God's faithfulness and how His plans have come to fruition for me and my family. I also remembered that daily strength comes from joy, and whenever God discusses strength in the Bible, He is addressing a warrior. That morning, through the book of Habakkuk, He was speaking to me.
Suddenly, something shifted, and I found myself in a new state of flow. I've experienced this before, so I recognize it as a breakthrough. Now, I just need to learn how to soar higher, in a new stream of air, reaching an inner peace where human souls connect with God.
Feeling rejuvenated both physically and spiritually, I resumed my walk and began receiving answers to question in form of creative inspiration. Suddenly, a breakthrough occurred, and I found the STRENGTH in JOY.
What If Someone Saw the Fighter in You Before You Did?
Have you been looking for answers from God lately but received no response? Maybe today's blog post serves as a gentle reminder that you have a fighter within you. How about some fresh plums to help you along your current life journey?
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