perseveranceLast night I was watching a movie with my kiddos. It was our third time, but I didn’t mind because I enjoyed it and it also left me with some thoughts to ponder.

The main character had a dream job she longed to fulfill. She enthusiastically set out with high hopes to achieve it. However, as soon as she began training, the character failed miserably in each required task. She was defeated. She was discouraged.

That’s actually how I felt in the beginning of my career. I was so excited about it and couldn’t wait to make a difference. Yet, as soon as I embarked on that journey, it felt more like an uphill battle rather than the smooth ride I expected.

When I hit one wall after another, doubts began to rise. I began to question my decision: “Did I make a mistake?” “Was this the right thing to do?” “Am I just kidding myself?” And before you know it, I decided that it was just too hard and felt ready to give up: “I can’t do this.” “Maybe I should just quit.”

But the movie didn’t end with the main character walking away. In fact, we see her returning to each task she wasn’t able to accomplish initially and practice. Long hours. Through the night. She pressed and tried and tried again until she was able to not only complete each obstacle, but ace them! Despite the delay in achieving the success she envisioned, this main character was able to fulfill her dream. In other words, she persevered.

I was reminded of the significance of this trait in our trying situations when I read Galatians 5:9 this morning: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Honestly, I was tired of the difficult situation I found myself in, but I knew God was with me so I had to keep trying. It wasn’t easy, but I did and I’m so thankful for the strength God gave me to keep going and bloom where I was planted.

Maybe you find yourself in a marriage that doesn’t look like how you dreamed it to be. Perhaps parenting is more difficult than you expected it to be. Or maybe the health challenges of a family member is causing you to feel hopeless. Don’t give up Friend. “It’s Not Over Yet” by King and Country encourages:

“…to everyone who’s hit their limit
It’s not over yet …
And even when you think you’re finished
It’s not over yet …
Keep on fighting
Out of the dark
Into the light
It’s not over
Hope is rising
Never give in
Never give up …
Life is a race we run
So run till the race is won
Don’t you ever give up”

Just as the tortoise in the race against the hare demonstrated, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)

~Joyce

 

by joyce

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