noun
steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.
Theology. continuance in a state of grace to the end, leading to eternal salvation.
Life Questions
Who comes to mind for you when you think of perseverance? Someone who has endured much and persisted onwards in the face of trial and adversity? How is your own resolve and capacity to persevere? As an important theme in scripture the challenge and call to stick with it and persevere in this life is significant. Consider some of these encouraging key verses from God's word as you strive and dig in.
Romans 5:2-4 And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
1 Corinthians 13:6,7 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
2 Thessalonians 3:5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance.
1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Hebrews 10:36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.
Hebrews 11:27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king's anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.
Hebrews 12:1 let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 5:11 As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
2 Peter 1:5-7 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
Revelation 2:19 I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.
Exhortation
Consider what Christ persevered in the name of love. Love for humanity and love for each one of us. Life is difficult, complicated and taxing the deeper we wade into it. Life is a gift. Hang on, press on and keep looking up as you seek to persevere. You are not alone in this.