7 Days of HopeSample

Endurance

By Pastor Riis Lewis

We’re all becoming well acquainted with the term endurance. The dictionary defines endurance as, “the ability to withstand hardship or adversity, especially  the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity.” 

Sound familiar? The good news is that our faith has prepared us for this. Jesus doesn’t promise a life free from pain, hardship, or adversity. In fact, He promises the opposite. Jesus tells us in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble…” Let that passage sink in!

In this world, there will be discomfort, pain, challenges, and there will be setbacks. But Jesus doesn’t leave us there, hHe continues, “…But take heart! I have overcome the world.” As we rejoice in the promise of victory, we must also acknowledge that the gap between “you will have trouble” and “I have overcome the world” is called endurance.

Seasons of our life will be lived in this gap and we must thrive in this place. God does His most transformative work there!

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:2-4, NIV)

The Lord is at work! He is using this season to make you whole, don’t miss the opportunity! Together, let’s decide to lean into every challenging moment of this journey. Instead of self-medicating with Netflix or Social Media, let’s be intentional about self-reflection and asking ourselves the hard questions. Let’s allow the Word of God to comfort, convict, and challenge us. Let’s let our friends and family draw near and provide love, support, and correction if necessary.

If we’ll allow God to work in us, and endure all that comes our way, this WILL be a turning point in your life! The best is yet to come!