“Persevere”
Introduction:
I had the awesome privilege of pastoring for 37 years. I know what you must be thinking; He must have started when he was in diapers. Very Funny! I have always loved to watch people become successful in life, especially in their Christian walk. Today, in our study, we will look at one of the characteristics of every successful person I know. They are not quitters; they do not give up; they persevere. I often used this piece of advice with my two daughters; Winners never quit, and quitters never win.
Preparation Recommendations:
- Find a quiet place.
- Get comfortable, but keep awake.
- Have a cup of water or beverage to quench your thirst.
- Have your Bible open to the book of James Chapter 1:2-4
- Meditate on the study. Have a pen and a journal to take a few notes.
Prayer:
Father, it is always good to spend time with you. Enlighten my mind as I look at this study. Teach me what you want me to know and help me live according to Your Word. I am your’s Lord, show me throughout my day what you would want me to do. Holy Spirit guide me and make me into the person you designed me to be. I pray this in the Name of Jesus. Amen
Scripture and Thought:
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
I have watched people jump from job to job, ministry to ministry, church to church, and even spouse to spouse. They are very good at starting, but finishing? Not so much! Whenever they encounter a trial, test, or temptation, they run or quit what they had started in good faith. James says the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Not just a little while, but until perseverance finishes its work. That sounds like until there is victory. Perseverance does two things. First, it makes you stronger. Second, it leads to achievement. No wonder why we should “consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever we face trials of many kinds .”
Think about this today: Are you a quitter? Do you give up when the going gets tough? Are you stronger when you quit? Are you more victorious as a quitter or after you have persevered?
Closing Prayer:
Forgive me, Father, when I quit too soon, and for believing the Christian life would be a broad and easy path. Help me to be strengthened through perseverance, and help me to see the victories perseverance brings. I desire to be a tool in your toolbox today, Lord. Lead me not into temptation but deliver me from evil. I pray this in Jesus’s mighty name. Amen
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