You asked

how do I keep going when I want to quit?

Adds the setting and its conversation across both testaments.

Galatians 6:9

“Let’s not lose heart in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we don’t give up.”

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to early Christian communities in the region of Galatia, likely around the mid-1st century CE. He was addressing various issues, including debates about Jewish law and Christian freedom, and here he encourages them to continue living ethically and serving others, even when it's difficult.

What small step can you take today to continue cultivating good, even if the desired harvest seems far off?

Then — the setting

Paul wrote to the Galatian churches, a collection of communities in what is now modern-day Turkey, probably between 48-55 CE. These early communities were grappling with questions of identity, particularly whether Gentile converts needed to adopt Jewish practices like circumcision to be 'true' followers of Jesus. Paul's letter vigorously argues for freedom in Christ and salvation by grace through faith, not by works of the law. Within this larger argument, Galatians 6 offers practical guidance on ethical living and community responsibilities, reminding them that this new freedom isn't an excuse for inaction, but an impetus for 'doing good' – especially for one another and for all people (v. 10). The call not to 'lose heart' or 'give up' is a recognition that living out these principles in a challenging social and religious environment was demanding.

Across the Testaments

The passage is from the New Testament, directly addressing early Christian communities. The theme of perseverance in 'doing good' or in one's chosen path echoes Old Testament wisdom literature, such as Proverbs (e.g., Proverbs 3:27-28), which often connects diligence and ethical behavior with eventual blessings or positive outcomes. Prophetic books also feature calls to steadfastness in justice and righteousness despite opposition (e.g., Isaiah 40:31, which speaks of those who wait on the Lord renewing their strength). While the New Testament context re-frames 'doing good' within the framework of Christ's grace and a new covenant community, the underlying human experience of wanting to quit when effort seems unrewarded is a perennial one, addressed across both testaments through promises of divine support and the ultimate triumph of righteousness.

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Hebrews 12:3
Encourages looking to Jesus as an example of enduring hardship so you do not grow weary.
2 Thessalonians 3:13
A direct admonition to not grow weary in doing what is right.
Proverbs 3:27
Advises not withholding good from those to whom it is due.

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