Staying put when circumstances challenge us can be one of life's greatest tests. Whether it's an unfulfilling job, a struggling marriage, or an uncomfortable church situation, the urge to leave can be overwhelming.

I experienced this firsthand at Bible school abroad, where unfamiliar teachings about faith left me feeling out of place. When I called my mother, ready to quit, her wisdom changed everything: "You can leave anytime. Why not stay a little longer?" This simple perspective shift allowed me to embrace the experience and love people despite our differences.

This reminds me of Paul's instruction to Timothy in Ephesus: "Stay there in Ephesus and stop those whose teaching is contrary to the truth... The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart" (1 Timothy 1:3-5 NLT). Paul wasn't just asking Timothy to endure – he was asking him to become a vessel of God's love.

Choosing to stay and love transformed my own experience. One morning, when a prostitute ran into our Bible school, I welcomed her without hesitation. This simple act of love led to her accepting Jesus, experiencing physical healing, and eventually becoming a mother of two.

Sometimes, staying put isn't about enduring – it's about allowing God to work through you. When you feel the urge to leave, remember that God's greatest miracles often happen right where you are. He encourages you: "Stay, friend. Stay here—and I will stay with you!"

Your presence where you are might be exactly what someone else needs for their miracle story.

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