Friday, January 4, 2013

A Man of Perseverance


"No great work is ever done in a hurry. To develop a great scientific discovery, to paint a great picture, to write an immortal poem, to become a minister, or a famous general; to do anything great requires time, patience and perseverance. These things are done by degrees, "Little by Little." Milton did not write "Paradise Lost" at a sitting, nor did Shakespeare compose "Hamlet" in a day. The greatest writers must begin with the alphabet, the most famous musicians once picked out their notes laboriously; a child must learn how to draw a straight line before he can develop into a Titian or a Michael Angelo."
-W. J. Wilmont Buxton

"The testing of your faith develops perseverance." -James 1:3

Perseverance in its basic form means to steadily persist in a course of action, or purpose; especially in the midst of difficulty. The top quote laid out some older, yet great examples to for us to think about. To think that some of the works mentioned above have lasted for centuries is absolutely amazing. But these works or paintings took years to accomplish and get right. We have to remember that when we are starting something new or taking on a new adventure in life. We must persevere!

The book of James has some great material when it comes to perseverance. In the first few verses, he says we are to find joy in the trials in our life, for they will yield in us perseverance. I don't think that would make a lot of sense to people these days, the NOW generation. He says that if we allow ourselves to persevere through whatever the circumstances are; we will be more mature and complete. We have been faithful to God and have come away better for it. Check out the book of James for insight on a lot of other topics.

Ever since I really, truly made Christ first and foremost in my life; I have prayed for consistency. I have prayed for God to show me how to be consistent. What it looks like? What it means? How can I do it? Well, it starts by praying daily, for consistency in Him. This prayer has helped me persevere through some great obstacles. You need to be steady in your walk with him, in your marriage, in your family and in your friendships. Don't give up at the first sign of trouble; stand taller, trust God and persevere.

How has God taught you perseverance?
Share an example and help out your fellow brother!


1 comment:

  1. Hey bother... WOW! I was sitting here thinking about the "stuff" in my life right now thats dragging me down. I clicked over here to check the new posts and got gut checked by this post! I honestly got goose bumps when I read what you said the book of james says about perseverance. I don't have any stories about how God had taught me to persevere but maybe soon... looking forward to the road ahead. Keep up the great work bud!

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