The Power of Persistence

by Web Admin, 3 years ago

"I quit."

InTouch Early Light Devotional By:  Dr. Charles Stanley

---

Today's Scripture:  Hebrews 11:13, 24-27

"I quit." We may say these words in our jobs, our marriages, or our ministry. We sometimes even speak this way toward God and His will for us if we begin to think the demands are too great, the cost is too high, or the obstacles are too huge. We decide in our minds that we've had enough, and as a result, we turn away.

But what is God's thinking? "Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial . . ." (James 1:12). Ponder that a minute. God is pleased when His children persist and do not give up. Troubles abound in this sin-wracked world, but God calls us blessed when we hold up under them. Just think - not only is God pleased, but He also blesses us for our determination to pursue His will for our life. (Hebrews 10:36) And His will is that we be transformed into the person He wants us to be and accomplish the specific purpose He has for each of us. To fulfill the Lord's plan, we must hold to the course He has given us.

When we consider giving up, we are at risk for achieving far less than what God has in mind for us. But to persist requires a combination of strong desire and willpower. How strong is your yearning to see God's work accomplished through you? On whose power have you been drawing in adversity - your own or the Holy Spirit's?

Both the desire and the power to persevere come from God, and He is willing to provide them in ample supply. (2 Peter 1:3) All that is necessary is a receptive heart. Does that describe you?

---

(Acknowledgements and credits to lightsource.com & intouch.org)