BUILDING OUR ENDURANCE

“FOR YOU KNOW THAT WHEN YOUR FAITH IS TESTED, YOUR ENDURANCE HAS A CHANCE TO GROW.” JAMES 1:3

The term “endurance” is defined as the fact or power of enduring an unpleasant or difficult process or situation without giving way.” Jesus and all of those who followed him had their faith tested. They were persecuted and physically tormented at times. Through all of their struggles their faith became stronger each time. With their strong faith they were able to endure everything that was put before them, even death. You and I are no different. We must have a faith that allows us to endure. We must have a trust in our God in heaven that is so strong that we know without question that we are in the hands of our Lord. He will not allow us to go through what we cannot handle. He has given us the precious Holy Spirit who lives in us. Sometimes we forget about the Holy Spirit. He gives us strength, power, guidance, patience and much more. As we tap into his strength, we are able to walk through the shadow of death, the persecutions thrown at us and the physical torment that is in our way. We must stay the course, talk with him and listen very carefully as he directs us. We must remember that the Holy Spirit is not a “thing” but is the “third person” of our God in heaven. We will have troubles but with faith we are able to build our endurance and not waver in our beliefs or way of life. Build your faith daily and endure all difficulties along the way. Remember, there is no fear in love! Perfect love casts out fear. Jesus is that love! John 4:18 PRAISE THE LORD IN AND THROUGH ALL THINGS!