I could see the excitement all over her as she informed me about her wedding plans. I encouraged and counselled her as much as I could. Few months into the marriage, she called to say Hello. After interacting and checking up on her, she said, “Pastor, it has not been easy. Now, I know what marriage is.”

Friend, you would not know how strong you are until you are faced with situations that reveal your true strength. Everything seems normal and fine until the time of crisis, and everyman is strong until tested. The strength of a man is determined by what it takes to discourage him. The truth is, all men face stuff, the difference is how we respond to it.

God has not promised you that the road would be easy, He has only assured you that the vision is possible despite all odds. This is why Jesus said, “…In this world you will have tribulations but be of good cheer because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Instead of asking God to give you a lighter load, ask Him to give you a stronger back.

Things may not get any better for the world but you have a choice under God to determine your own outcome. “For darkness will cover the earth and gross darkness the people but the Lord will arise upon you…” (Isaiah 60:1). The secret to triumph is to not focus on the gross darkness but on the light of God upon you so that “when men are cast down, you would say that there is a lifting up” (Job 22:29).

God wants to give you capacity before the time of crisis. The crisis is not an attack on your capacity but the test of it. This is why you need to build the right capacity before the time of crisis. “If you faint in the time of crisis, how strong is your strength?” (Proverbs 24:10). Rather than blaming your failure on the crisis, check your capacity.

God wants you to acquire capacity before your opportunity. If you are trying to be ready when you are supposed to be ready then you are already late. Rather than merely praying for opportunities, take time to acquire the right capacity. David acquired capacity before the opportunity to face Goliath showed up (1 Samuel 17:33-37). You must be overqualified for your present level if you hope to step into your next level. Amen.

© ‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria