Av1611.com describes perseverance as the persistence in anything undertaking; continues pursuit or persecution of any business or enterprise begun; applied alike to good or evil.
Webster describes perseverance as a continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition.
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Hebrews 12:1
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9
Christ is our ultimate example of what it means to persevere in the face of opposition. He fully trusted God and His plan regardless of the cost.
Christ’s investment in us was painful and down right torturous. Yet He kept the right perspective…keeping the approval of God and the joyful, heavenly outcome in the forefront of His mind.
There will be failures and fumbles along to way. Do not let fears or disappointments overcome you. Don’t quit! We have reason to be courageous and bold in our course because the Lord strong and might is ever with us (Joshua 1:8, Psalm 24:8).
If we are to finish our course well, we must strive to choose to follow Christ regardless of the obstacles that come along the way. Keep moving forward.
Additional Scripture:
Hebrews 12:1, Galatians 6:9, James 1:12, Romans 5:3-5, 1 Chronicles 16:11; 2 Timothy 2:12, 2 Thessalonians 3:13, Hebrews 10:36, Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 24:13, 1 Peter 5:7, Ephesians 6:18, 2 Corinthians 4:8, Philippians 4:13, Romans 12:132, Colossians 1:11-12,
Prayer:
Father, Thank You for sufficient grace in times of need. Thank You for the “heroes of the faith” who have persevered through the ages giving us godly examples of standing fast in their faith during times of increased difficulty and persecution. Please help me to keep my focus on You and my faith steadfast on the Solid Rock. Teach me the courage I need to continue to press toward the mark of the prize which is in and through Christ alone. Strengthen me when I am weak and sustain me with Your mercy, love, and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Hymns of Praise:
1. When We All Get To Heaven
2. I Know Whom I Have Believed
3. The Solid Rock
4. Nothing Is Impossible
5. Hold the Fort
