Persistence, Perseverance, and Perspective
As I’ve been resting on Sunday (my Sabbath day), I’ve taken some time to reflect over the past two weeks and, in particular, the past seven days. It all began on Sunday, June 22nd, at 3:30 AM when my husband was admitted into the hospital. The journey since that moment has been filled with unexpected challenges, moments of fear, and yet, a deep sense of gratitude for the support of loved ones and the unwavering presence of God.
As I review, reflect, respond, I am reminded of the importance of taking time to pause, rest, and recharge our bodies. Because if we don't our bodies will do it for us unexpectedly.
Here is what God laid on my heart today
Persistence, Perseverance, and Perspective
In the face of illness, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional, we often find ourselves at a crossroads. The journey through suffering can seem long and discouraging. But as believers, we are not alone in our struggles. The Bible offers deep wisdom about spiritual persistence, perseverance, and perspective that can sustain us through even the darkest valleys.
Persistence: A Call to Keep Going
Jesus offers us a model of persistence in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46). Even in His darkest hour, He persisted in prayer, seeking God’s will over His own. In our own struggles with illness, we are called to do the same: to persist in prayer, even when the answers aren’t immediate, trusting that God's timing is perfect.
Perseverance: Enduring with Patience and Hope
Perseverance is different from mere persistence—it’s the grace to endure. It’s continuing to trust God when the journey is long and the healing seems delayed. Perseverance acknowledges the struggle, but it also holds onto hope. Romans 5:3-4 speaks to this: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
James 1:12 further encourages us to remain steadfast in the face of trials: “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.”
Perspective: Seeing Illness Through God’s Eyes
In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, Paul encourages us to look beyond our present suffering: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
Illness often forces us to reevaluate what truly matters. We may come to realize that the things we once thought were important—our careers, possessions, or accomplishments—pale in comparison to the lasting treasures of faith, love, and the eternal promises of God. Illness invites us to align our perspective with God’s eternal viewpoint, trusting that our present struggles are shaping us for an eternity of glory.
During this past week a sweet sister reminded me through a prescious text message Isaiah 40...
Isaiah 40: A Renewed Strength
we find a promise of strength and renewal that applies to our journey of perseverance:
"He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint."
This powerful passage reminds us that when we feel weak and unable to continue, God’s strength is available to us. When we wait on Him, He renews our strength. In our time of illness, this promise is a source of encouragement. We may feel exhausted, physically and emotionally, but God promises that those who place their hope in Him will be given the strength to continue.
Wrapping it up - it comes down to Trusting God’s Plan
If you are walking through illness today, or something else, take heart. Persistence, perseverance, and perspective are not about pretending everything is okay. They are about honestly facing the challenges of life with the assurance that God is with you every step of the way.
Trust that, even in your suffering, God is doing something deep within you. He is refining your character, growing your faith, and preparing you for eternal glory. In the process, may you find peace, joy, and a deeper relationship with the One who is with you always.
With Much Love
Linda Sharp-Clark ~
