PERSEVERANCE
During the first half of the summer term, we explore perseverance looking first to the teachings within the bible.
Summer 1 Perseverance
Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
This verse gives hope in knowing that if you continue to do what’s right in the eyes of God, you will reap a harvest for your obedience.
The Parable of the Persistent Widow Luke 18:1-8 (NIV)
18 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. 2 He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’
4 “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’”
6 And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”
Other Bible verses
Christians often describe their spiritual life as a journey. Paul talks about the upward call of God in Christ: 'I run towards the goal, so that I can win the prize of being called to heaven' (Philippians 3:14, CEV).
'We must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us' (Hebrews 12:1).
'Keep your mind on Jesus... Then you won't get discouraged and give up' (Hebrews 12:3).
Paul, in his letter to Timothy, uses a series of images to help his readers - that of a soldier, of an athlete and of a farmer (2 Timothy 2:3-7).
Each one needs dedication if they are to win the battle, complete the race, or produce a good harvest. Most good things in life only come with time, patience, dedicated effort and perseverance. This is also true in the realm of faith. For example, Jesus advises his followers not to give up in prayer (Luke 18:1-8).
In the Old Testament there are promises for those who persevere:
'The Lord gives strength to those who are weary... Those who trust the Lord will find new
strength. They will be strong like eagles, soaring up on wings; they will walk and run without getting tired' (Isaiah 40:29-31).
'You know that many runners enter a race, but the only one of them wins the prize. So run to win!' (1 Corinthians 9:24).
Key themes to explore:
- Not giving up
- Try, try and try again
- Sticking at a task; keep on keeping on
- Seeing a job through to the end; exhibiting endurance
- 'No gain without pain'
- Not being distracted or derailed from your ambitions
- Success doesn't come easily; being prepared to pay the price; bearing the heat of the day
- Keeping your eye on your goal - link SEAL: Going for goals
Quotes on perseverance
"Age wrinkles the body. Quitting wrinkles the soul." Douglas MacArthur
"Our greatest joy is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. "Confucius
"Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained." Marie Curie