Introduction

‘And to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness.’ 2 Peter 1:6

The next quality in our list of additives is perseverance. This simply implies ‘refusal to give up’. It suggests the persistent determination to keep doing something until the end, in spite of the challenges that may be presented.

Paul explained to those in Rome that perseverance produces character which results in hope that does not put to shame, Romans 5:1-5.

The Hebrew writer says we have to persevere in our sufferings so that when we have done God’s will, we will receive the promised reward, Hebrews 10:36-37.

In 2 Timothy 3, Paul reminds us of the persecutions and sufferings he persevered in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra and how the Lord rescues him from all of them. The Bible says many are the afflictions of the righteous, but God delivers him from them all. God never forsakes His people, no matter what.

It may be challenging to live godly lives in this terribly immoral and corrupt world and this may result in being persecuted but remember that God is faithful and He will never disappoint His children.

The outcome of Job’s perseverance reminds us again of God’s faithfulness and His ability to help us in our times of deepest needs. It is very comforting to know that God is not unmindful of the things we go through nor of our perseverance in them.

He says to the church at Ephesus: ‘I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance’, Revelation 2:1-2. That’s great! God truly knows and He didn’t mince words expressing this.

Again, He says to the church in Thyatira: ‘I know your deeds ….… and perseverance….’, Revelation 2:18-19.

‘You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.’ 2 Timothy 3:10-15

Prayer

Thank You, our compassionate Father for being mindful of us in all of our trials. Please help us to endure till the end of time that we may be accounted worthy of the promised crown of righteousness.