Meditate on Troubles

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Franklin D. Roosevelt wrote, “A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor.” It’s a simple but wise saying that reminds us about the importance of hardships in our life. Without challenges, we never learn new skills or gain the spiritual strength needed in order to endure. This is why the apostle Paul teaches us to “celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4). Everyone faces difficulties. For some, it might involve financial challenges or the loss of good health. Others might know the pain that comes with the breakup of a family or the death of a long-held dream. The question is not if one of these things will happen to us but when. Rather than spend time worrying, we put our faith in God.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, July 10, 2022.

In Due Season

Have faith in God’s work and plans.

Focus for the New Year: Perseverance in Faithfulness

Christ is the center of our confession of faith in the gospel, both in creed and public testimony.  Surely, the readers would not give up Christ, whom they had professed, and reject what He had done for them, if they could understand the superiority of His person and work. 

Hold fast does not refer to how to be saved or remain saved.  It means rather that perseverance in faithfulness is proof of real faith.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Hebrews 3:1,6.

Hold fast

Hold fast:  holding on, or the perseverance of the saints, is the human side of eternal security.  It is not something done to maintain salvation, but is rather an evidence of salvation.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Hebrews 10:23.

I am poor and needy

Faith persevering in trial, Psalm 40.

Build Something Beautiful

Profiting from Perseverance

People can be easily discouraged in the face of adversity-like John Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, who accompanied Paul and Barnabas at the start of their first missionary journey.  As they prepared to enter the difficult region of Asia Minor, John Mark left and returned to Jerusalem.  John Mark had not yet learned that “tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

If you are thinking of quitting something that is difficult, think of the character and hope you will forfeit if you do.

“Genius, that power that dazzles mortal eyes,

Is oft but perseverance in disguise.”  Henry Austin

Commentary from the Pathways devotional, by David Jeremiah, May 18.