The Need for Severe Perseverance

That low voice rears its ugly head at the worst times.  You’re minding your own business, doing what you think is right. What happens? The critic appears, speaking with that nagging monotone….

“You aren’t a good writer.”

“You are not my Timothy (my mentee).”

“You don’t know how to do _______.”

Friend, those opinions of critics tend to wear us down, wear us out, wear our patience thin.

As I write this message for myself, may I encourage you with this one word. Perseverance. Perseverance. Perseverance. Persevere in what God calls you to do.

Remember, there will always be critics in life. In fact, one dear friend and leader says to always account for a two percent “Jerk Factor.” Realize that two percent of your audience won’t like you or what you’re doing for God’s Kingdom.

Opinions are like noses; everyone has one. Opinions and truth are often two different things.

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” –Romans 5:3-4.

Keep going. Please don’t give up because you hear some negative criticism. Smile and thank the critics. Also pray for them. Their criticism will make you stronger.

These days I’ve learned that I don’t want to give my opinion. It’s more beneficial to point people back to the Bible, back to God’s Word, back to the Voice of Truth. This is the True Voice that drowns out nagging opinions of criticism.

“So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” –Hebrews 11:35-36.

Amen. Go get ’em! Today is your day!

Reflect:

What is the nagging monotone critic’s voice that you hear and how will you respond differently today? Please comment.

What does perseverance look like to you? Please comment.

Renew:

“Because you know that the testing of faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” –James 1:3-4.

Recharge:

To watch one of my favorite motivating movie clips on perseverance, please watch this poignant, quick football scene from the awesome Christian movie “Facing the Giants.”