Perseverance - Pastor Tim
Perseverance
Pastor Tim Spirk
In Matthew 7:7–11, Jesus invites us into a life of persistent prayer: “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for.” This isn’t about demanding things from God—it’s about approaching Him as a loving Father, with the confidence of a child who knows they’re heard. To ask, seek, and knock means to press in—not once, but continually—with faith that He loves to give good gifts to His children.
Persistence doesn’t come without obstacles. In Luke 18:1–8, Jesus tells the story of the persistent widow to remind us to always pray and never lose heart. Prayer isn’t just a request—it’s an act of endurance. Hebrews 12:1–4 calls us to “run with endurance the race set before us,” keeping our eyes on Jesus. He’s our example—the One who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.
So how do we persevere when life gets heavy or answers seem delayed?
1. Pray Without Ceasing
1 Thessalonians 5:17 urges us to “pray perseveringly.” Prayer is more than words—it’s how we stay steadfast and encouraged. When we pray, we’re reminded that we’re not alone in the waiting. Post or declare prophetic words God has spoken over your life, and invite trusted friends to pray with you. Community strengthens persistence.
2. Don’t Lose Hope
Romans 15:13 calls God the source of hope, filling us with joy and peace as we trust Him. Hope and trust go hand in hand—when we lose hope, it’s often because we’ve stopped trusting His timing. Hebrews 10:23 encourages us to hold tightly to our hope without wavering. Waiting on God is never wasted time; He is faithful to fulfill every promise.
3. Stand Firm
Hebrews 10:35–36 reminds us not to throw away our confidence in the Lord. Even when we feel weary, we are called to patient endurance—a hopeful strength that refuses to give up. God promises to restore, repay, and reward those who remain steadfast.
Like Shammah in 2 Samuel 23:11, who stood his ground when everyone else fled, we are called to stand in faith, even when we feel alone. Galatians 6:9 assures us that “at just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”
So strengthen your hands, steady your heart, and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. The God who called you is faithful—and He will come through.
