Tag Archives: perseverance

November 12
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“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12, NIV)

The disciple of Jesus receives a test as a good thing.

Although times of examination are seldom pleasant, the outcome of testing reveals the nature of the stuff we’re made. Only the person who has persevered under trial knows — really knows — the stuff of which he or she is made. Without testing, we’re just guessing.

To “pass” a test of our spiritual selves requires only perseverance. We need not persevere perfectly, but we do need to persevere faithfully.

The strength to persevere comes when we keep ours eyes fixed on Christ under even the most difficult of circumstances. Doing so assures capital “L” Life for us. We apprehend it in no other way.  – Luther

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September 8
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“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13, NIV)

In 17 words, Paul provides the Christian disciple with a challenge for every day, and a charge for each life.  From the end of this short verse to its beginning — phrase by phrase — let us look at what Paul has said.

“Do everything in love”: Treat others as you would have others treat you. Live to please our heavenly Father. 

“Be strong”: If the Holy Spirit of God is your strength, you are strong indeed. His strength never flags. His power never fails. Rely on this strength.

“Be courageous”: Going against “conventional wisdom” with God’s wisdom; swimming upstream; standing alone in one’s convictions; or choosing the “narrow gate” requires moral, physical, and spiritual courage. Choose it — then be it!

“Stand firm in the faith”: Conventional wisdom, enlightened self-interest, and fashion are “currents and tides.” Faith is the disciple’s anchor, and the word of God is the anchor’s chain. 

“Be on your guard”: Thieves do not steal things that have no value. Because you are a person of inestimable worth and value, there is a bounty on your life. Therefore, guard your heart, your thoughts, your motives, and your affections against theft and/or misuse by unworthy agents.  – Luther 

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June 24
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“His wife said to him, ‘Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!’ He (Job) replied, ‘You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?’ In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.” (Job 2:9-10, NIV)

We have no problem receiving God’s “obvious blessings,” but what about the blessings that arrive in disguise? 

Difficult times challenge our integrity as disciples of Jesus, as much as the difficulties of Job challenged his integrity as a man of God; that is, sticking to one’s belief that God will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5); and that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purposes (Romans 8:28). 

Do not expect others to understand your tenacity; even your closest friends will not. “Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (Psalm 30:5b)  – Luther

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