As we sit here in-flight to Canada, the Holy Spirit is speaking to me on an unpopular subject, the necessity of perseverance. We by nature resist it. We want life pretty much quick and easy. Yet, He tells us that in order to become mature and ready for our calling there is testing.
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint because Gods love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” –Romans 5:3-5
Our flesh will resist and push back but how we come through is key to becoming who He has called us all to be. He tells us to rejoice in suffering. I don’t know about you, but I don’t know anyone who is happy to suffer.
However, I do know that everyone desires hope. Hope is popular. Well in order to have hope there is first the completion of suffering and perseverance. Its all part of the process that leads to holiness.
I can tell you from experience, that although I wouldn’t choose the suffering and perseverance that I have experienced in season, I can say it has been worth it. For who I am is a new creation, rich in faith and a display of His wonders that surpasses it all.
I would not be who I am today if I fought back, returned to comfortable, or gave up. Perseverance has made me who I am. It’s not just waiting. You see you can wait a long time without much growth if your attitude is wrong or have a complaint in your heart. The definition of perseverance is steadfastness despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
God tells us to rejoice in our suffering and perseverance not just survive it. Anyone can endure and become bitter. But a Jesus follower that understands the purpose of the process is an invaluable tool that can change a generation.
Don’t give up loved ones. He is our hope that does not disappoint.
Well, my friend and I just landed and are super excited for our first trip to Niagara Falls + Toronto! Oh, Canada! Let the adventure continue…
Photograph by: Leah Marie Carson
Amen.