Perseverance: Key to success (R) (2/6/2023)
Hebrews 10:35-36 "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." - NIV
The writer relates the trials of the faith that those in Christ undergo. They suffered, were publicly insulted, persecuted, imprisoned and willingly gave up their possessions and their lives for what they confidently believed. They knew they had lasting possessions in God that far surpassed the temporary things of this life. Perseverance was key to their abiding in the faith despite all these challenges.
We were never promised a smooth ride in the journey of faith, and indeed in all life endeavors. But we were assured of victory in them all (John 16:33). Perseverance involves patience and endurance in the face of pain, delays and seeming uncertainty. It takes a decision to remain steadfast. The knowledge of Whom and what we have believed, gives us confidence to continue moving amidst opposition, pain and tears.
The promised reward is given to those who endure to the end. Many give up along the way and look for an easy way out. But just as all those who went ahead of us in this journey endured and recieved their crowns, so can we. Cheer up precious child of God. Hang in there, doing God’s will. You will overcome and eventually inherit the promise.
Matthew 24:12-13 "Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."
Revelation 2:10b "…Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life."
Shalom children of God.