Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.
2 Chronicles 15:7 (KJV)

If you have worked toward a goal, you know some things are quickly obtained while others may take a little longer. That’s when perseverance becomes necessary to reach the finish line.

To persevere means to continue in some effort or course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition. To be steadfast in purpose.

In spite of has been my word(s) for a while. In fact, this post is an “in spite of” moment. Though I’m late, I made it! Psst! February has been that kind of month. 😊

STEP 4: Perseverance

As I thought about this step, I wanted to know the difference between perseverance and persistence. I found out persistence can be negative, while perseverance can be positive.

For instance, when we hear of a persistent child, we usually associate them with not listening when they are told no. Not taking no for an answer is acceptable if you’re trying to achieve a good outcome. Not so good when someone harasses you for whatever reason.

On the other hand, perseverance refers to people who have endured hardships or difficult circumstances to achieve their goals.

Examples in American History

The Wright brothers worked on their plane for four years before taking the first flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, in 1903

According to The Franklin Institute, it took Thomas Edison and his associates two years (1878-1880) to invent the incandescent bulb. Of course, that was after working on 3000 ideas to go about it.

Western writer Louis L’Amour’s manuscripts were rejected 200 times before Bantam Publishers gave him a contract. After selling 330 million books, he became their best-selling author. I have quite a few in my library.

Edison’s Lightbulb – fi.edu | Bestsellers Initially Rejected – litrejections.com

Examples in Biblical History

Moses led a passel of people through the desert for 40 years in spite of their constant complaining.

Paul finished his race in spite of the beatings, stonings, and rejection by his own people.

Jesus fulfilled the Father’s will in spite of rejection by His own people, false accusations, beatings, and the cross.

Wrap-Up

I hope you garnered a basket of courage from the examples given above. A goal worth achieving is going to take time and effort. To succeed, we must keep pushing ahead in spite of the obstacles.

Keep moving forward.

Winner

Congratulations to Melissa Henderson for winning Sandra Byrd’s devotional!