How to Persevere

I feel it my my soul when I struggle to do something.

Anger boils hot. It bubbles in different forms.

“This stupid computer.”

“It’s not abstract?! If you have to say it isn’t terribly abstract it probably is abstract.”

“UGH! Why doesn’t this work the way I think it should work!”

Underlying my frustration is the fact that I can’t do it right away. If I’m honest with myself I begin calling myself names.

“I’m stupid.”

“I don’t want to ask for help because I’ll look dumb.”

“I’ll never get this.”

And I see this sickness in my children. As they struggle to learn something new or obtain a new skill. If it is a struggle they fight against it and want to quit.

I want to quit when it gets tough too. I want to give-up. I want to be comfortable. Sure of my other capabilities I prefer to just say I can’t.

How can I teach my children perseverance when I don’t care to persevere?

I admire those who persevere. I long to be like them – to overcome to persevere. And the answer comes slow but sure. Softly.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is. . . faithfulness…” Galatians 5:22

“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” Hebrews 10:36

Perseverance is hanging in there and keeping on when I don’t feel like it or when it seems hopeless.

It means trusting God with the outcome instead of clinging to how I want it to turn out.

Perseverance means I keep my eyes on Jesus trusting His plans and ways.

The faithfulness I need to persevere comes from the Spirit.

I must stay connected to the Spirit through prayer and God’s Word. I must keep focused on Jesus rather than my hopes, dreams, and plans. Finally I must cling to God’s promises trusting His way even when things are difficult.

Father God help us to persevere. Through Your Spirit enable us to keep our minds focused on You so we can cling to Your promises and trust You. Give us strength and faithfulness to persevere. In Jesus’ Name Amen.

What do you do in order to persevere?