Perseverance

Perseverance is listed among the "Christian Graces" of 2 Peter Chapter 1. The word perseverance comes from a Greek word that means to bear up under or endure. In the New Testament it is translated patience, endurance and persistence. Thayer defines perseverance as the characteristic of one that is not moved from his purpose and is loyal even in the greatest of trials and sufferings. What then as Christians must we endure?

We must endure temptation. James states that the man who endures temptation is blessed (James 1:12). James speaks of the perseverance of the prophets and of Job in James 5:10-11. Paul exhorted the Ephesians to arm themselves with the whole armor of God that they might withstand the devil (Ephesians 6:10-17). Jesus shows us the best way to persevere temptation is to be familiar with the word of God (Matthew 4:1-11).

We must endure tribulation. Sickness, death, financial hardships and the disappointments of life can knock us off track. Jesus taught that we would face tribulation (John 16:33). Peter tells us not to be surprised when we face trails (1 Peter 4:12). James tells us to "count it all joy" when facing the trials of life. Paul teaches us to glory in our tribulations because they produce character and hope (Romans 5:3-4). In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, we see that tribulation is temporary.

We must endure persecution. Persecution can be described as suffering for our faith. Jesus endured persecution and hostility to the bitter end and counted it joy (Hebrews 12:1-3). Paul in overcoming persecution fought the good fight of faith and finished the race (2 Timothy 4:6-8). In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states that those who are persecuted for righteousness sake are blessed (Matthew 5:10-12).

We must persevere in well doing. In Galatians 6:9-10, we are told not to grow weary in well doing. Paul urged Titus to maintain good works (Titus 2:14, 3:8, 3:14). We are to always abound in the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). We are created in Jesus for good work (Ephesians 2:10).

There are many reasons why people do not persevere. They allow obstacles to ensnare and overtake them (Luke 8:11-15). They loose focus (Philippians 3:13-14). Some fail to count the cost of discipleship (Luke 14:25-32). Some lose trust in God (Romans 8:31-37).

However, there is a great reward for those who persevere. The crown of life awaits the faithful (Revelation 2:10). Rest for the soul comes to those who persevere (Revelation 14:13). Souls are won because of perseverance (Luke 21:19). When we are patient, the lost are restored (James 5:19-20). Perseverance produces hope and peace (Romans 15:4, Philippians 4:6-7).

~ Greg Neill