Tag Archives: endurance

February 3
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“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.”  (Romans 5:3, NLT)

The only way to become a successful long-distance runner is to put in the miles over a period of time.  Anything less, and the runner fails because he or she lacks endurance.

God is building into us endurance (perseverance) through various problems and trials as a track coach might send his runners over rough, hilly, trails; and through spongy meadows, knowing that in order to overcome, a runner must first endure.

God is fitting each one of us for His purposes.  Trials and problems come into our life only with God’s permission.  He permits them only to the extent that they are necessary to run the course we cannot yet see — or to run beside the individual we have not yet met.

When we keep in mind the beneficial outcomes of our trials, we can rejoice.  – Luther

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December 8
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“But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.  To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”  (1 Peter 2:20b-21, NIV)

To “follow in his steps” means going wherever He may go, even into the crucible of personal suffering for doing good.

Because He has left us “an example,” it means doing as He has done: Enduring suffering for God’s glory.

To imitate Jesus is our calling!  It may be the only glimpse of Christ at work through suffering that some of your neighbors, co-workers, family members, and friends see today.  – Luther

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November 7
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“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children.  For what children are not disciplined by their father?  If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.”  (Hebrews 12:7-8, NIV)

Even as flawed parents, we hope that our children will become as we are — only better.  So, we allow various kind of inconveniences (of varying severity) to achieve that goal.  Perfect in every way, our heavenly Father’s ultimate goal for you and me is that we become exactly like Him!

Whether we view the inevitable hardships of life as punishment (as some do); or as preparation (as others do), depends on the nature of our relationship with God.

When difficulties and hardships invade your life, do you ask, “Why”; or do you say, “Why not”?  – Luther

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