Thursday, September 27, 2018

September 27, 2018

"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" II Peter 1:5-6

Complete this phrase, "When life gives you lemons, make............."

That is the same big idea expressed in Peter's admonition to add "perseverance". The word used in the original language is "hupomone" and it means not only to endure but it has the idea of turning the pain into gain.

Here are some various Scriptures on this theme:

“But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” I Peter 2:20-21

"The time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed  for his appearing." 2 Tim 4:6-8

"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:3-4

"Be not overcome with evil but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21
Jesus modeled perseverance when He looked beyond  the terrible suffering of the cross and endured the shame because He knew it was the Father's will and He looked forward to the joy of pleasing God. He endured the momentary to gain the eternal.
Perseverance means that when you are suffering bad things, painful things, unfair and unjust things, you look for the next good thing to do to serve God. You obey and serve God just as you do in the happy times.

"Add to your faith PERSEVERANCE."

Is there some pain in your life?

Do you need some perseverance?

Will you ask God to help you look beyond the pain and turn it into a gain?













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