Perseverance
How would you describe yourself when things get tough: “no quit” or
“forget this mess!” How patient are you when things are not going your
way?
Think About It
First, James says to consider it joy when we go through trials and then he reminds us that tough times test and reveal the truth about our faith. A spiritual equation is developing here. Trials test us and tests develop perseverance.
The term perseverance refers to the idea of patience in the midst of uncertainty. It also portrays steadfastness and faithfulness.
What does this look like exactly?
Perhaps perseverance is best explained by its polar opposite. The one who is going through difficult times and ceases to help others by retreating into solitude is a different person than the one James describes. A person who embraces worry instead of exercising trust or one who slides away from godliness to selfishness are two more examples of what James would say is in contrast to what God is trying to accomplish in us during long and difficult trials.
There is a promise here. If we joyfully see the trial as a test of our faith, we will grow to be people, who are disciplined, faithful, and patient. If by the power of Christ in us, we continue to see ourselves as servants of God in the midst of tough times, we allow him to make us more like Jesus.
Isn’t perseverance what Christ modeled? He lived among us without blame yet persevered to and through death upon a cross for you and me.
What meaning would the word perseverance have apart from difficulty, trial, and trouble? Would there be any need for this virtue? Is not the whole idea of victory over difficulties a persevering theme? Who needs instructions about a life absent of trials and troubles? The word, idea and practice of perseverance are what we need to succeed in our journey of faith. And without testing we would not be able to call out its name for it would have no relevance at all.
Try It
Let’s face it. We all envision a life of bliss and we try every thing we can to avoid tests. The problem with tests is that we have to study, train, and practice for them so that we pass. So let’s take a test to see how we are doing. Take some time this week and answer the following questions:
1. What financial steps am I taking today to prepare for an economic storm in the future?
2. How am I developing honesty and integrity in all my activities so that when I am tempted to take short cuts, I will be more likely to stay on the right course?
3. How am I developing a healthy relationship with God and others so that my life will be centered upon God and community when times get tough?
