Perseverance Pays

   It makes no difference how we feel about life; whether or not we are in 
difficult circumstances or if we are living on the mountain tops of 
abundance, Jesus is still Lord. God is faithful and victory is ours. 

   Despite what we may have been told, life is tough. It has always been and 
always will be. There are few who have not lived long enough to known heartache, 
loss or tragedy.

   The good news is that we are not alone. The Apostle Paul had some 
descriptive words about his experience in life:

"We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not 
despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not 
destroyed."  2 Corinthians 4:8,9, NASB

   Have you walked where Paul has walked? Do you know his pain? 
That's where personal power and favor with God comes from persevering through the 
burdens, tragedies and afflictions of life. Never willing to give up in 
frustration and despair. This type of determination is only found in a rare few. 
And one thing is sure ... the believer who practices perseverance "walks 
closer to God." 

   God doesn't support quitters. It goes against everything that 
God expects of us. He will always sustain us with more grace but withdraws 
His blessings in the face of cowardice. 

   There are many popular clich's about how to live the "abundant 
life." We may be told to just, "hang in there" or "it will be better 
soon." In reality, it may not get better. Not as soon as we would like anyway. 
However, it is encouraging to know that Jesus will stay with us when we make 
mistakes, are hurt or want to quit. It was Jesus himself you said that, "I will 
never leave you or forsake you."


   God's faithfulness will always be greater than your problems; His 
compassion is always available when we hurt. Jesus is there for us at 
all times, good or bad.