Blessed Is He Who Remains Dedicated

"Our motto must continue to be perseverance. And ultimately I trust the Almighty will crown our efforts with success."  - William Wilberforce

Undoubtedly, today's world is full of negatives, such as: stress, danger, uncertainty, discord and a great many others. On the other hand, there are good amounts of the positive, too. However, it is mostly the negative or bad things that disrupt our lives and grab our attention.

Everyone has had the wind knocked out of their sails, or has suffered a setback. While these life experiences may vary in strength or intensity, they nonetheless are common to all of us. Some turn to drugs, alcohol, or worse in search of needed courage to cope.

But these are only temporary remedies that simply patch and not repair the problem. When they do occur we must somehow find the fortitude to press on, or persevere. We must seek a longer-lasting solution to help us traverse the deep valleys we encounter in life. And what better source than God (Jeremiah 31:25).

We are told in James 1:12 (ESV) that, "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him." This encouraging verse provides us with the conviction to undertake whatever bumps we might encounter.

Sometimes we wonder whether our actions do any good or not. Here we are told right from the start that our perseverance is not futile. It is good to be assured that perseverance is a blessing. For sure, this promise alone might serve us well enough, but there is more.

We receive a special compensation for our righteous suffering, God has has promised that we will wear the crown of life for eternity. Let me clarify this. The crown of life is not eternal life. Nor can it be earned or retained by our good works. It is an exclusive reward for those who hand everything over to Him in times of trial.

Thus, a major goal for the Christian, in his suffering, should be to gain God's approval, and by his blessedness receive the crown of life. The tested Christian will be a crowned one, and the crown he wears will be life and joy to him and will last forever. For our steadfastness we will receive a future reward that comes not as a debt, but as a gracious promise.

Scripture: Romans 12:12; Revelation 3:11; 2 Timothy 2:12; Hebrews 10:36; 1 Chronicles 16:11

Prayer: Holy Father, be the foundation on which I build my life, and provide me with Your strength that I may always endure any troubles wherever they may find me, amen.

May God bless you always!

Amanda