per⋅se⋅ver⋅ance [pur-suh-veer-uh
ns]
| 1. | steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., esp. in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. |
| 2. | Theology. continuance in a state of grace to the end, leading to eternal salvation. |
The Lord has kept me in James 1:2-4 and Romans 5:3-5 which talks about taking joy in our troubles. Heard this a time or two. The concept of perseverance producing character, then character hope is easy to put in words. It's not so easy (to put it VERY lightly) to believe and act upon. However, that's not even the main point the Lord is teaching me right now. You know how we will come back to the same topics or disciplines in our Christian walk, but each time we learn something new, or see something differently? Well...
Currently, the resounding idea for me is that our troubles are meant for us to go through. Literally. We must simply go through these "tough" times. It may be REALLY tough, like the kind of struggle which takes your breath away, and changes you forever. Or it could seem as petty as "oh were is my hair brush?" And these times may last for a short season, like the life span of a skin cell. Then, there is always the possibility that our trials are more like the Andy Griffith show, will it ever go away?
Regardless, we are to continue on a persistent course of action, keep moving, in a state of grace to the end. I think this was the kind of race that Paul was referring to. If there is no other encouragement in our troubles, then at least one more day is behind us and the next is here. One step at a time, but each one advancing.
I needed this today, Jen. "...keep moving, in a state of grace to the end..." Really good post. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteYou are such an inspiration, Jennifer. I mean seriously... thanks for the timely word.
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