“Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:4
This verse is found just after that section of scripture we would all like to ignore: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” I wonder if you’re like me. When a new trial comes, a new challenge in my life, I can rise up and meet it head on. I don’t necessarily find joy in it, but at least I can address the issue. Facing the trial is not usually the problem. It’s when that trial goes on. And on. And on. When I have no idea how long a difficult season is going to last, it seems to pull me further and further down. That light at the end of tunnel is so hopeful! But when you can’t see that light, it can be just the opposite. It can feel as if I’m going into a darker and darker tunnel.
Those are the times when perseverance is necessary. But how do we find the perseverance to keep going? Verse 3 tells us that perseverance comes from the testing of our faith. That doesn’t sound like a very fun answer, does it? It’s kind of like patience. It would be nice if God just gave us all the perseverance we need, right when we need it. But instead, He grows it in us. He allows us to experience tests that will develop us into people who have the stamina to persevere. Tests are the workouts that build those perseverance muscles. It’s not a fun process, but it is necessary and takes us to a good place.
That good place is a place of maturity and completeness. Just think of it! We won’t lack anything! I know I’m not there, because I often think that I don’t have what it takes for trials I face. But when we’re fully mature and complete we won’t be lacking anything. I’m not even sure that will happen this side of heaven. But at least we’ll get closer with each trial we face, each time we persevere.
Do you think that you just can’t go another day? Hang onto your faith! Do you feel like the dark tunnel is closing in around you? Your faith will see you through. Are you even struggling to keep that faith? Go back to the basics. Tell God exactly how you’re feeling. If necessary, complain to Him that it’s not fair, or you’re beaten down, or whatever your situation. Be honest with Him. Cry out to Him. Read Psalm 22 to Him. Honesty doesn’t offend God. Fall down before Him and He will pick you up, dust you off, and set you back on the right path. Then hang onto that faith in Him and soon you’ll realize that you have persevered!