“We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.” James 5:11 (NAS)
Jade stomped angrily down the sidewalk. Why couldn’t he just do what she wanted. Was there any man out there who was worthy of her?
Jason wiped his face again. He was so tired. It didn’t seem like he was getting anywhere. Maybe he would look for something a little easier to achieve.
A wise man said, “Good things come to those who wait.” In most cases, instant gratification just doesn’t exist in this universe! True gratification occurs only after one endures the hardships, heartaches, troubles, and struggles in life. But it is so easy to allow the immediate struggles, we face, to discourage us. We give up our dreams. We lose sight of our goal.
Consider the results of enduring. We learn patience, not Job’s, but patience that keeps our goal in sight. We learn the benefit of obedience, like Jesus, who endured the Cross so that his goal of eternal salvation would be achieved.
Dag Hammarskjold said, “ Never measure the height of a mountain until you have reached the top. Then you will see how low it was.” So, we must endure the challenges of getting to the top in order to truly measure our mountains.
Dear Father, thank you for enduring grace. Forgive us for thinking too small. Empower us with a toughness that endures all circumstances. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in blessed endurance,