Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. – Romans 5:3-4
There was once a man whose life seemed characterized by failure. At the age of 22, his business failed. At 23, he ran for political office but was defeated. So he turned to another business, which failed when he was 24. At 25, things started to turn around when he was elected to his state’s legislature, but at 26 his love died.
He had a nervous breakdown at 27 and was defeated in his run for yet another political office. This series of defeats would continue until he finally won a seat in the U.S. Congress at 37. But that victory was followed by defeat for re-election at 39, defeat for election to the U.S. Senate at 46, defeat in his run for Vice President at 47, and then again for a seat in the Senate at 49.
Finally, at the age of 51, Abraham Lincoln was elected President of the United Sates. And many scholars credit him with holding America together during the country’s darkest moment in history.
Failures, setbacks, and suffering do not need to derail the future God has planned for you. And no matter your age, God still has a future He’s called you to embrace. So persevere today knowing that your hope for tomorrow is found in the very One who holds your life in His hands.
There’s no telling how God will use your perseverance to impact His Kingdom and the lives of those around you.
Prayer Challenge
Pray for strength to persevere no matter what you’re facing. And ask God to help you trust that He can work through the storms in your life to bring about something good
Questions for thought
What are some events in your past that you know God used to shape your faith and accomplish something good?
What are you facing today that you need to entrust to the Lord and seek His help to persevere through?