Motivated by the ImpossibleSample

ON THE ROAD OF PERSEVERANCE

We don’t have to pursue suffering; it has a way of finding us. There will be tears and moments when we want to quit. However, our current sufferings, no matter how big or small, expose our need for God. They can build confidence in us because He will meet us in the midst of our trials. 

In Romans 5 the word perseverance is mentioned several times by Apostle Paul. It may not always be our favorite to hear when it comes to enduring difficulties and opposition. Steadfastness is another word for standing strong under pressure. Both are connected to action on our part rather than idle waiting for a change to transpire. 

When we find ourselves on the road of perseverance, it is not by coincidence that we are there. We are given the opportunity to develop new survival skills. Each person responds differently to crisis and pressure. Some may be prone to become pushy, seek their own way, be anxious, wanting all that God promised to come to pass miraculously after one prayer. Others may turn inward and become isolated and withdrawn, not wanting their weakness to be exposed. From a biblical perspective and from personal experience, nothing that produces lasting results comes to fruition in a blink of an eye. God may answer quickly on some occasions, but the difficult bus rides of life are challenges that mature and grow us the most.

Before Joseph was promoted to the position of what we would call today a prime minister, he had to grow in wisdom, character, and steadfastness of hope in God alone. While Joseph had many natural and spiritual gifts, without development of his character he could have easily abused the power given to him by exacting revenge against his family. When his brothers were finally faced with the truth, they were ashamed. Yet in his response to them, Joseph had no trace of bitterness or anger in his heart: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” 

Joseph’s many years of suffering and loss produced patience and endurance—strength of character inside him. 

Character to be able to handle the unjust circumstances. 

Character to forgive when hatred would have been natural. 

Character to embrace his gifts and hold on to his faith uncompromisingly. 

Joseph was able to stand confidently before his brothers, filled with love, compassion, and forgiveness, because he knew God’s promises for his life. He no longer had the need for an earthly coat of distinction. He had a revelation of who God was and His promises, and that was enough. He had embraced his heavenly coat of many colors.

We will know when this difficult season has accomplished its purpose in us when we can stand before our enemies—no matter who they are or what they have done to us—look them in the eye and instead of wanting revenge, thank them, bless them, accept them, and even love them.

Your successes come as a byproduct of what is developed within you as a result of choosing courage over fear and patience over refusal to go through the challenges. Not only will we feel liberated when we learn how to lean on God, but we will have nothing to fear.