Persevere: God Will Deliver!

We can’t always know what drives a person to keep striving for solutions to problems when none appears possible. How do you acquire perseverance, the strength of character that doesn’t give up or give in to failure? Thomas Carlyle noted, "Perseverance is the hinge on which all virtues swing." A virtue is defined as a high standard of conduct and morality. 

 

          In researching the Biblical account of Jacob, Leah and Rachel, Leah is in the worst position. Her husband does not love her. She must compete with her sister Rachel for Jacob's attention. Still she persists in having his children, striving for Jacob’s love and acceptance.

          Leah didn’t choose her station in life. Someone else chose for her, but she refused to be ruled by it. Perhaps you know what it means not to be loved as you would like to be loved. Yet, you must stay where you are, for there is no other choice. Remember this: God does not close his eyes or forget the plans he has for you. So, persevere and wait. God will deliver on his plan for you.  

Infused with God's Light and Love - Part 3

Taking the path of least resistance for managing hard issues is a natural response, especially whenever choosing to go down the difficult, less traveled path appears hazardous. Succumbing to the most traveled path is appealing; it lets us avoid challenging choices. The Apostle Paul refers to this as the old, lingering, natural, unredeemed self.

Choosing to change may mean choosing a difficult path to follow. Now most people are not opposed to hard work if it’s acceptable and has predictable rewards. Taking the path of least resistance is failing to choose the good that could be done. My father believed in never putting off until tomorrow what could be done today.  

It’s easier to hate someone who has hurt you rather than to pray for God to bless that person. Praying for a person requires a change in attitude. The issue is to struggle, fight the good fight of faith, never give up or give in, while straining toward what pleases God. He will give you courage and strength to do it.  

Endure: Don't Give In or Give Up - Part 1

Recently, I met a person who was experiencing intense conflict over office procedures and policies. What appeared to be a secondary issue, but turned out to be the primary issue, was this person’s fear of conflict and confrontation. He preferred to pout and internalize frustration rather than to be "up front" with the issues.

There are several ways to manage conflict. One is to endure in silence and become a helpless victim. A healthier way to manage is to be open and truthful, carefully explaining what you think and need. Then request the person's help and support for resolving problems. Change usually requires patience and endurance for appropriate change to become a reality.

Endurance displays character strengths. Endurance makes emotional and spiritual transformation possible. Character strengths come from believing the Lord God will use any situation to let you know he is interested in you and will give you strength to endure. You can love and trust him to faithfully keep his promises.