Perseverance

The Power of Persistence 
Philippians 3:10-14

Everyone desires success. Simply wanting it, however, won't guarantee
achievement. That's why many people fail to reach their goal; they encounter
hardship and give up. Let's discuss one characteristic needed to accomplish
what you set out to do.

Persistence is the combination of strong desire and willpower&lsqauo;it is the
capacity to stay on course in the face of difficulty and refuse to quit.
Paul exemplified this quality. He was passionate about sharing the gospel
with both Jews and Gentiles across the known world. Acts 20:24 records his
purpose, " . . . that I may finish my course and the ministry which I
received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace
of God." Though he encountered tremendous obstacles like shipwreck, prison,
physical punishment, and constant danger, the apostle never quit (2 Cor.
11:23-28).

What motivated Paul to persevere amidst struggles? First, he had a clear
God-given goal and trusted that the Lord would enable him to achieve it.
Second, the apostle felt indebted to share the life-changing truth of
salvation. Third, he knew the devastation awaiting those who do not know
Jesus.

Paul had his eyes fixed on his purpose, which he so valued that no
circumstance could deter him. Ultimately, he achieved what almighty God had
ordained.

The Father has great goals for our lives. Striving for anything less will
neither fulfill us nor achieve what God has planned in our life. Once His
direction is clear, we should passionately pursue God's purposes with the
Holy Spirit's strength and guidance&lsqauo;especially when obstacles arise. Don't
give up!

biblical teaching from Dr. Charles Stanley,