Watch the first installment of T.D. Jakes’ sermon, “Defying the Urge to Quit,” from his Rise Above series. In this stirring message, Bishop Jakes tackles the modern cultural mindset that causes so many to give up and quit. This is especially troubling from a spiritual perspective. Often, inner spiritual weakness – the tendency to quit when things get rough – is overlooked for “bigger” sins. In most churches, the more obvious “sins of the flesh” take precedence. But having a weak character or lack of perseverance is an equally important issue to address. T.D. Jakes gives real-life examples and Biblical examples – people of strong character who, in the midst of trial, desired to quit, yet remained firm in the faith and persevered. Near the end of his life, the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy that he “fought the good fight.” Bishop Jakes points out that Paul faced a real dilemma in his Christian journey. While he exerted great influence and power in ministering to others, he had his own infirmity which he could not overcome. He struggled with this conflict, asking God to take it away, yet even when God did not remove his infirmity, Paul continued and “finished the race.” Jesus also struggled with finishing his mission. Before His crucifixion, He prayed to “let this cup pass from me,” yet He remained committed, saying, “not My will, but Thine be done.” T.D. Jakes urges The Potter’s House – and all of us – to continue in our purpose, our journey, our mission no matter the obstacles or circumstances. Be a fighter. Keep going. Keep believing. Finish your race.