The Bible has many admonitions to persevere. In Hebrews 10:36 The writer says “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised”. Today I have to fight anxiety and fear and draw my heart and mind to obey this promise.

I am not one to persevere naturally. I am a quitter. I hate to suffer and I like immediate gratification. I was the person who turned to alcohol and drugs to numb my pain so I could give myself instant gratification. Throughout my life God has been teaching me perseverance, how to wait on him in peace and serenity. Sometimes it’s better than others. The scriptures and my obedience to them makes the difference.

Scriptures like Heb 10:36, James 1:12 (NIV)
[12] Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him and 1Timothy 4:16 (NIV)
[16] Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers, help me when I need to persevere with God, my children, people and myself.

Today I have to persevere in my faith. I have a lot of changes going on in my personal life as we embark on a new career in Mental Health Counseling. It is filled with excitement of new ideas but also many uncertainties and financial strain. I feel the strain and can persevere on most days but then days like today leave me worried and anxious. I have to stop and turn my heart towards the scriptures and hold onto 1 Cor13 that says love always perseveres and James 5:11 NIV
[11] As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

Yes, I need to persevere! Thanks God for his promises to me. Thank God for his compassion and mercy for when I am weak. Thank God for his spirit that helps me be strong in Him today.