Go: A 40-Day Journey To The Never ReachedSample

Eight More

By: Cari Hurst

“Eight more.” Six years ago, I took a boot camp class. Each time I thought I had done my best, my instructor pushed. “Eight more, you always have at least eight more repetitions left inside.” I hated to admit it, but she was right. 

Often we want to throw in the towel. But the Lord says, “Eight more. You can do it. You can go further!”

After his resurrection, Jesus inspired the disciples on the road to Emmaus to give him “eight more.” They knew Jesus was dead. They seemed confused by a report that his body wasn’t in the tomb, that some women reported encountering angels who said Jesus was alive. 

I love how The Passion Translation phrases Jesus’ response: “Why are you so thick-headed? Why do you find it so hard to believe every word the prophets have spoken?” (Luke 24:25). But Jesus didn’t just chide them; he went further: “beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27 ESV).

When they reached their destination, Jesus acted as if he were going further. But they insisted it was too late to go any further. Jesus stayed and “Then their eyes were opened and they recognized Him;.” (Luke 24:29–31 NASB). 

Suddenly energized, it no longer seemed too late for traveling; that same hour they returned to Jerusalem to tell the others—Jesus is alive! In their brief time together, Jesus awakened their burning hearts (sounds like a workout to me). 

Often, we focus on our destination. If I could just get there, God would use me. But God wants to use you here, now. He’s calling you to go further now, to deepen your commitment to him.

What’s your “eight more”? Where have you settled for just enough, though you know in your heart you have more to give? 

Go Further

When you’re weary, discouraged, or adrift, press on. When you don’t understand why things have turned out this way and can’t see the path forward, don’t give up. Persevere. Give God “eight more.” Not only do you have more within you than you imagined, your eyes might be on the verge of being opened. You can do it—eight more!

Pray for Never Reached People Group: The Kep. Kangean of Indonesia

Pray for believers at work among the Kep. Kangean, that they and their families may have wisdom, courage, stamina, provision, favor, protection, and grace as ambassadors of Christ’s love.