Romans 5:3-5a And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint…
Perseverance is such a hard word to live some days. It is defined as, “continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition.” This is the definition of life for all of us. We must persevere until the end of whatever project we are doing, a difficult season of life, etc.
We currently have a 16-week old puppy at home. While he has brought much joy into my life, I am walking the daily journey of the perseverance of potty training and learning to walk on a leash correctly. Some days are easier than others when it comes to potty training. Other days I get too busy in a project and am reminded when finding a puddle in the house he cannot wait for me to finish what I am doing all the time. A couple of weeks ago Chris and I started walking the dogs regularly in the morning before our day starts. The first time taking Harley on a walk was like walking a helicopter. He ran circles around me the whole time and was crazy. It was very hilarious for us to watch him. I am amazed at a week or so of a constant walk, he is now walking in a straight line and no so much of a helicopter pattern.
Just like the daily perseverance I must practice teaching my dog how to be a good dog, we too much practice perseverance in our daily lives. We never know when a certain season will end, I have been looking for a job for over a month now. While it has become discouraging, I am continuing to persevere and keep looking. In Romans, Paul teaches the natural progression of perseverance in our lives. Eventually, if we keep persevering in our walk with Christ, we develop character and hope. Hope is what gives us the strength to make it through the hard days. It gives our perseverance a backbone when we are tired. We look forward to the day with hope when life will be better when the season of life or trial we are experiencing will be over, but ultimately we look forward with hope to the day when all the evil of this world will be no more and we will be with Jesus. Do not give up! Keep persevering on your hard days, life will get better. I have a solid and promising hope it will.
