Most long-term commitments involve a moment of reflection when the journey just feels too difficult. Long hikes often have a point at which you stop taking in the beauty of the outdoors, and you just want to be done. A journey to get healthy often starts with enthusiasm and dedication, but there’s always a stage when your salad doesn’t compare to the pizza that’s just a phone call away. Journeys worth taking usually have these moments, and this is especially true when it comes to your journey with God.

No one knew this better than the Christians of the early church. The believers of that time often faced persecution, harassment, and even death, all because of their devotion to Jesus. However, they pressed on knowing that not living for Christ was not living at all, and the reward waiting for them was far greater than anything this world could offer. Even today, Christians all over the world face hardship and persecution but continue to stand strong, because God promised that He will never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). The journey God has called you to may not always be easy, but if you follow His path, you’ll never be doing it alone.

In Ephesians 6, Paul instructs believers to put on what he called the “full armor of God.” In this passage of scripture, Paul describes in detail the characteristics of the spirit-filled believer in relation to each piece of armor. He instructs us to put on the belt of truth and the body armor of righteousness. He tells us we’re given peace for shoes and salvation as a helmet. Finally, we’re to equip ourselves with the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit. What is interesting about this metaphor is not necessarily what Paul does describe, but what he doesn’t. Nowhere in this passage does Paul mention a piece of armor to cover your back. Armor for a soldier’s backside was particularly useful in any situation where he or she may have to fall back or retreat from battle. Paul didn’t seem to think this was necessary for the believer, because when we equip ourselves in God’s armor and follow the Holy Spirit’s leading, there is no need to ever retreat.

In this journey God has you on, it’s important to hold on and never forget who you are in Christ. It’s easy to look at your circumstances and get discouraged. In those moments, you must remember that what can be seen is only temporary, but the promises of God are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18), even if we can’t see them with our eyes. If you lack anything, go to God and He will provide you with what you need (James 1:5). You were never intended to make this journey alone. As you push forward, lean on your Heavenly Father and the godly people He’s placed around you.