Run the race. Keep the pace. Eyes on Jesus

Day 31: Perseverance #writetogether31days

There’s a young woman I know who has set a goal for herself. She’s done what it takes to be prepared, but to reach the bar she’s set for herself, she must pass several tests. She studies, applies what she’s learned, drives the miles to get to the test site, sits through the exam and then anxiously waits. Sometimes the news is worth celebrating and other times she learns that she was just a few points short and must try again. 

As I sit here the ponderer I am, and look back over what I’ve written during these 31 days, I realize it is the very same for me. I know who I want to become, but to get there also requires being tested. Such is the life of a Christian. 

I’ve done what it takes to be prepared in accepting Christ as my Savior. Studying the Word and applying it to my life helps me “practice what I preach,” to be ready to go that extra mile, and  when I’m anxiously waiting in the midst of those tests and trials, to endure. Sometimes it seems as if I’m gaining in my quest for greater faith and at other times, it’s clear I’m coming up short. Feeling like I take one step forward then two steps back can be quite discouraging.  Maybe you can relate.

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12 (NIV)

“Consider it all 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 1:3-4 (NIV)

I know it can be discouraging for my young friend too, but the thing I so admire about her is, she does try again, and again if necessary. She perseveres and studies, practices, drives the miles, braves the testing and waiting all over again to finish what she’s started. Without knowing it, she inspires me to do the same. 

I pray for her, and myself, and for you too, that as we face those things that test us, we don’t give up. As Hebrews 12 tells us, “let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” May we not grow weary or lose heart, but try again, and again if necessary. “Blessed is the one who perseveres.” Yes, these 31 days (and many more) are teaching me: such is the life of a Christian. And even when it doesn’t feel like it, that’s news worth celebrating!