Dear SCC & Friends,
…need of endurance… ~Hebrews 12:1
Reflection #227
Endurance is a state of lastingness, and trials are the crucibles by which endurance is forged. ~Anon.~ …let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith… ~Heb. 12:1-2Modern culture shapes ideas and behavior, but it is the Word of God that endures at all times in all places. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God endures forever. ~Isa. 40:8 The Latin word for endurance is durus (durable) meaning hard set, fixed, lasting and abiding… It is the staying power to withstand adversity and hardship requiring faith, hope and love. Endurance is not about instant gratification; rather it’s analogous to a marathon race run one step at a time… The race is not always to the swift but to him who keeps on running. It’s a good race, and the Lord is our refuge and strength both now and forever… We are exhorted… Do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. ~Heb. 10:35 ~Selah~
It was by perseverance that the snail reached the ark.~Spurgeon~ Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial… ~Jam. 1:12When we get to a place where all we have is God, we realize for the first time that God is enough. I have a paperweight on my desk that reads, Never, never, never quit. ~Winston Churchill~ I’ve worn a wristband for many years that says, Never ever give up. ~Jesse Reese Foundation~ I wear a wedding ring which symbolizes an enduring promise made 52 years ago. It is only by God’s grace and love that we are sustained through the trials and temptations of this life. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, it’s good to be reminded of why you started the race in the first place. It’s not how we start the race, but how we finish the race that matters… and by God’s grace may we finish well… For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. ~Philip. 1:6 We can do this… Keep up the good work!
Made to endure,
Kevin