byWe’ve all encountered challenges that tested our resolve. Perhaps you’ve been stuck on a frustrating video game level, repeatedly trying different approaches before eventually giving up. Or maybe you’ve faced personal trials that seemed insurmountable. The early church endured similar hardships, facing relentless trials that could have easily crushed their spirit. Yet, James encouraged them, emphasising that perseverance builds character and maturity. Let’s explore why you should allow perseverance to shape your life.
You will face tribulations
The Word of God has established this fact. In John 16:33, we can recall Jesus saying,
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. … In this world you will have trouble. … But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
No one is exempted from troubles in this world, especially the believer. But why is this so? So, through perseverance, you may become mature and complete and lack nothing (see James 1:4).
How would a doctor be productive if there were no medical problems to solve? Or a lawyer if there were no legal issues to take care of. And where there are medical problems that the doctor solves and solves well, does he not mature in his field? Does the lawyer who perseveres till he solves every legal issue not lack anything? So why do you want a problem-free life as a Christian? It should rather excite you as an avenue to grow and be used by God.
Discern God’s reason behind every suffering and let Him help you
Everything happens for a reason. Yes. If you believe that you are a spirit being and that there exists a world beyond the physical realm, then everything happens for a reason.
Perseverance is more than just enduring tough difficulties; it is about embracing the growth and maturity that come from these experiences.
For instance, if you are suffering financially for the time being, as you persevere, learn to discern why you are suffering. The reason may be to teach you to give generously when you become financially free. Or if you suffer from sexual addictions, the reason may be to teach you self-discipline as you persevere in Christ till you are ultimately delivered. When you find some of these reasons, you can direct your prayer there for God to help you.
Seasons change but don’t forget your lessons
Nothing situation is permanent. Problems would come and go. Poverty, sickness, persecution from authorities and every form of addiction are all temporal. When they go, you are not supposed to forget the lessons you learn from them. Imagine David not learning from what led to the death of his first son with Bathsheba after his encounter with Samuel (see 2 Samuel 12:10–24:25). He would have continued fornicating. Therefore, learn your lessons after every suffering and never forget them because they will make your life better with time.
To sum everything up, perseverance is more than just enduring tough difficulties; it is about embracing the growth and maturity that comes from these experiences. By understanding that tribulations are inevitable, discerning God’s purpose behind our struggles, and remembering the lessons learned, you allow perseverance to complete its transformative work in you.
Related: The Purpose of Trials
