Did you ever have one of those days? Today, I am sitting in front of my computer and I’m struggling on what to write. It’s not a dry spell or a roadblock. Rather, it comes from exhaustion.
Yet, I must press on and write an article for your enjoyment and encouragement. Though I am tired, my heart desires to press onward. For me, the task of writing is not a grind; rather, it’s a joy and a challenge. I’d not be doing this blog; if I didn’t enjoy the work.
Perseverance is a gift and it is one that’s worth cultivating. How do you develop this wonderful character? Perseverance simply means you’re determined to go forward; in spite of difficulties.
I know that 1 Corinthians 15:33 says “Bad company corrupts good morals”. What about the opposite? Would I not benefit from good company? Would I not learn from certain YouTube personalities, who exhorts their listeners and demonstrate by virtue of their behaviors?
I am not referring to a specific person; rather a group of people. Guess what? They’re not all gamers. I’ve run into a similar situation with fellow blog writers. The first group obviously came from YouTube. The second group came from certain Goog+ communities and some friends at my church.
How does this relate to building one’s perseverance? I have received many forms encouragements from my fellow content creators. It’s true that they are quite busy in their own endeavors; however, there is something to gain in the company of those, who know more than you.
There is another aspect of perseverance that’s worth mentioning. As a writer, I mostly function alone. Does not 1 Samuel 30:6 speak of David encouraging himself, in the Lord? How did he do it?
It’s very likely that David talked with God and he chose to believe the promises of God; though he was having a very rough time. Go read for yourself and you’ll see. The Scriptures contain many wonderful promises like Romans 8:30-31
30 and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?
However, there is one problem. I have to choose to believe God. I have to choose to act on it. Does not James say that faith without work is useless? Go read James 2:20. In truth, you should read James 2:18-24, for the whole story.
In reality, anything that is worth doing requires hard work. Blog writing is no exception to this rule. I should say the same thing for creating content for YouTube. Brain related work can be equally exhausting, as physical labor. Though you may not think so, it is.
If I read Romans 5:3-5 correctly, then Paul is saying that hard work or trials can develop perseverance. Peter says something quite similar in 2 Peter 1:5-9. Perseverance is definitely worth building; however, you have to act on it.
This morning, I was tired and not certain of my topic. However, I chose to take the proverbial pen to electronic paper and write. Yes, I had plenty of beautiful worship music playing, prayer and Scriptures to fill my heart and mind. Nevertheless, I have to make the decision–to write.
At the same time, I need to share this quote from Philippians 4:12-14
12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. 14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.
Did you notice that Paul credits Jesus, for his source of strength? Paul went through pure hell, during his ministry. I don’t think his personal strength would have been of much use. No, Paul drew on Christ, who’s within him.
In case you missed it, I am not talking about a positive attitude or a religion centering on God. These things can only take you, so far. On the contrary, I’m talking about a personal relationship with Jesus.
A relationship that requires you to invite Jesus into your heart. Yes, I am talking about salvation and so much more. The door is open, for those who are willing to say “Yes” to God’s gift of His Son; as per John 3:16
16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
Here’s a last tip about perseverance. Though I could press forward; there is a time to wrap things up. If I continue forward, then I risk losing your interest. So, I trust this article has been of help and a blessing to you.
Christianity Explained 
Hello Barry, Thanks for a great reminder and the encouragement to press on. We are all called to encourage one another and I enjoyed being reminded that I am not alone in pressing onward….