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When my husband and I saw a sign that announced, “Chimney Rock National Monument Ahead,” we hightailed it toward the site. On our quest to see the sights of Colorado, Chimney Rock beckoned.

But the turnoff wasn’t clearly marked. We followed the sunflower-lined route we thought might lead to our destination. But to our left and right, we saw no side roads, no signs, and no visitor center. My cell phone display read “No Service,” which meant no GPS.

I envisioned driving for miles, only to turn around and backtrack—or worse yet, only to get lost. I wanted to make a U-turn, but my husband kept going. We continued for another mile, then saw it perched atop a stone wall: the tan and brown sign identifying “Chimney Rock National Monument.”

This wasn’t the first time I’d almost missed a spectacular sight because of fear. I often give up too soon. Fear and discouragement also block the road when I seek to follow Jesus but don’t make headway.

Paul knew the danger of discouragement. He reminded the Galatians that they should restore those caught in transgression. He instructed them to share, help others, and use their gifts without comparing themselves to others. Paul encouraged them to continue doing good.

But sometimes we don’t see results, and the path of Spirit-filled service feels like a dead-end road. Perhaps we gave time and energy to a God-inspired cause, but became discouraged by a lack of progress. Maybe we refused to explore new territory, start new projects, or join new ministries because we didn’t receive explicit signs.

Fear can chase us back to our comfort zones. We can miss the spectacular and settle for the so-so because we fail to go the distance. God will use our efforts to accomplish His purpose. Let’s heed Paul’s challenge and persevere. We may be one mile from our destination, one prayer away from victory, or one day away from God’s spectacular answer. Your breakthrough may be just around the corner.