Persistence! It is a word we hear all through life. Our parents encouraged us to be persistent when things didn't seem to go right and we wanted to give up trying. Our teachers told us to persist when it came to learning and studying. Employers like employees that will persevere in their business and seek to overcome obstacles as they present themselves.
But what about our Christian life? Here are some things that the Hob, Scriptures admonish us to persist in:
The Christian is not promised that it is going to be easy to follow the Lord and live for His glory here in this world. No, in fact, just the contrary. The Lord Jesus said these words to His disciples before leaving them to go to the cross:
But the Lord Jesus has also provided everything needed so that we can press on and persist in the walk of faith, even in these dark, difficult times, referred to as the "last days." 2 Timothy 3:11This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (2 Timothy 3:1). It is never in our own strength, but in His, and His alone we go on.
“According as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness."
Consider this question: "Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges?" 1 Corinthians 9:77Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? (1 Corinthians 9:7). No one! But we have the "Lord of Hosts," who goes before, and the battle is indeed His! Remember, it may seem easier to give up in the face of conflict, but this is never of God. Keep on...it is well worthwhile!
Persistence is a virtue, a trait of high degree,
And those who live for Jesus, from giving up must flee.
In Jesus' strength keep pressing, onward, and upward too;
Faith's path may not be easy, but He'll your strength renew.
Persist, persist, ye Christian, The Lord is on Thy side,
It is His strength that keeps thee, In Him we can abide:
Persist, persist, ye weary, awake ye saints, and stand;
The battle may seem heavy, and we a feeble band.