Developing perseverance is a process in which God renders his aid. An athlete does not become a world-class champion overnight or by mere desire (1 Cor. 9:24-27). Darrell K. Royal and Paul W. Bryant (showing my age here) put together championship teams, but the players had to persevere through rigorous training. Sometimes the training was on the edge of dangerous, but the outcome was impressive.
Paul wrote, “We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us” (Rom. 5:3-5). Paul prayed that his readers would be “strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience” (Col. 1:11). If we wish to persevere, God will surely help us.
Fellow Christians, we are being sorely tested at present. The covid 19 pandemic has changed our world, and much of the change is not good. Satan has tempted many to give up altogether on the idea of meeting together with the church. Will we endure through the trial? Will we persevere? Paul charged Timothy, “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Tim. 6:11-12). “May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance” (2 Thess. 3:5).
Stay tuned…
To be a child of God is the greatest privilege we have, but we also have responsibility. May God bless us all as we work with his Spirit to develop the character the Father expects of his children. TC
