God’s Strength to Persevere


I drove home the other day almost in tears. No reason really. Just. Life.

You know those days? You’re handling what comes your way without upset, taking the unexpected issues in stride, keeping up with the schedule, and then…you hit the point when you realize just how tired you are, physically, emotionally, even spiritually.

Yep, that was me. Tears and driving don’t mix, so I talked to God. And one word was His only answer.

Persevere.

It was His gentle reminder. Persevere is my One Word for this year, but I haven’t been thinking about it much. Just trying to do it.

Now I can’t stop thinking about it in very specific ways.

Persevere—through the tough days that string together for too long.

Persevere—in holding on to hope, when it seems others have given up.

Persevere—in following Jesus, especially when I know I’m under spiritual attack.

Persevere—when it feels like it would be easier to quit.
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. James 5:11 NIV
In God’s reminder to persevere I felt comforted. And strengthened. I realized that it’s not enough to keep going on my own. I need to lean into His strength…and His compassion.

In Christ,
Laura  

14 comments:

  1. Absolutely! In His strength we carry on! Praying His mighty strength and all-surpassing peace surround you today! Blessings,

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  2. Amen, Laura! Some days are just hard, but by His strength we can persevere. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. Thanks for this beautiful reminder!

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  3. Perfect timing for me. I've been so weary with all that is going on around me. I'm so thankful for his compassion and mercy which never fails.

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  4. I have been feeling exactly the same way! Endurance was my word last year, and I needed this reminder of all that God promises to those who endure!

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  5. We all have those days. Some of us (believers) are unwilling to share it. Thanks for being open and transparent. (Visiting from #FaithFilledFriday today.)

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  6. Pushing on toward the prize, I keep my eyes focused on Jesus.. Perseverance -- a great promise is given for those who persevere. May the God of compassion and mercy be with you and give you His strength, comfort and peace as you persevere.

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    1. oops - forgot to say - found you at #FreshMarketFriday

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  7. Hmm yes, we all have those moments/ days for sure. Knowing that we don't have to persevere in our own (somewhat feeble) strength is the very best news. We all need a boost and some encouragement from time to time, and I think your "persevere" word is pretty wonderful! Thanks so much for your honesty and for sharing this... stopping by from #ThoughtProvokingThursdays

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  8. This post reads like a battle cry. Persevere! I need that repetition!

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  9. Such good reminders for when those days come, Laura. He will give us the strength we need. Blessings on your Sabbath!

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  10. Thank you so much for sharing this post.
    By reading it, I have also been reminded that we are to count it all joy as we face trials because the testing of our faith produces perseverance.

    I pray that your perseverance in your trial will finish its work so that you will be complete, lacking nothing (James 1: 2-4). Amen.

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  11. Yes, never give up pursuing Jesus. When life overwhelms, I think He waits for us to surrender and seek Him. Only by His strength. Thank you for sharing!

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  12. Thank you for a timely reminder, not only that I need to persevere, but that I can only do so in God's strength.

    Glad to be your neighbor at Let Us Grow this week.

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  13. Laura, I don't know which comforted my heart more, your post title or your reminder to persevere! This word is one we use contantly in the team building industry because our character is molded and shaped through perseverence. And even more so through our journey with Christ. It has been a difficult week in my world also, so this timely encouragement is much needed. Thanks for your message and for sharing this on Fresh Market Friday! So glad to have you:) Crystal~

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