Do It, even If It’s Hard By Pastor Lanre Oluseye

There are times in life when the things we desire seem impossible to achieve. Various factors such as trauma, experiences, and missed opportunities can contribute to life’s struggles. Often, we wish we could change certain things in our lives, but the reality is that some things are beyond our control.

Life throws punches at everyone, and the most devastating ones are often those we don’t see coming. However, the good news is that, in the fight with life, you cannot lose because God, our Father is the referee. The outcome is already determined—you will always win.

Some situations are entirely out of our control. Take, for example, Zacchaeus (Luke 19:2–4 NKJV). He was despised because of his profession as a tax collector and his societal status. Worst of all, he was short—something he could not change. When Jesus came to town, Zacchaeus desperately wanted to see Him, but because of who he was, no one was willing to make room for him. Like Zacchaeus, there are aspects of life we cannot change, but his story teaches us key lessons on how to rise above our limitations.

Lessons from Zacchaeus

1. He Changed His Location (Luke 19:4 NKJV)

Instead of staying stuck in the crowd, he ran ahead of them.

Sometimes, the people around you will not let you forget who you used to be. Success is often location-sensitive. If the environment you are in is holding you back, you must be willing to move. However, changing your location is not just about physical surroundings—it also includes your mindset. Let go of people who are not meant to be in your life and focus on who or what is left.

2. He found a Sycamore Tree (Luke 19:4 NLT)

Zacchaeus did see the tree and recognized it as a system of advantage that would help him overcome his limitation (his short stature) and see Jesus.

Systems of advantage are all typically around you. Stop focusing on who left you rather focus on who or what is left.

There is a “sycamore tree” in your life—an opportunity, a connection, a resource that can help you move forward. God will never leave you without help. Don’t dwell on obstacles; instead, look around for the systems of advantage God has placed in your path.

3. He Climbed the Tree and Gave Himself Visibility (Luke 19:4 NLT)

Zacchaeus didn’t wait for someone to lift him—he took action and climbed the tree. In life, you must give yourself visibility. The world will perceive you based on the value you place on yourself. Elevate whatever it is you have. Don’t sell yourself cheap.

Your past does not define you—renovate yourself and move forward. When your mindset about yourself changes, others will begin to see you differently.

Luke 19:5 (NKJV) tells us that when Zacchaeus climbed the tree, Jesus looked up at him. You must elevate yourself for what is high to see you.

The key to personal renovation is knowledge. The cure for inferiority complex is knowledge. Close the knowledge gap. Whoever has more knowledge holds more power. Sometimes, climbing your “sycamore tree” requires humility because growth often comes through people that will speak to you in ways you do not like.

Learn to manage tension. Even in hostile environments, never forget who you are.

It may seem difficult but do it even if it’s hard.