“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces ENDURANCE, and ENDURANCE produces character, and character produces hope.” Romans 5:3-4
Successful people in any field never give up. They have a "don't quit" attitude that sustains them when encountering inevitable roadblocks and setbacks. They keep trying, working, and persisting long after the average person has thrown in the towel.
Against all odds, we can bring to fruition what only we can see and deeply feel. There are no shortcuts nor easy ways out to reach our ultimate goal. Expect a long and arduous route rather than a walk in the park.
ENDURANCE reminds us of how hungry we are to reach our highest goal. The Lord put it this way "One who ENDURES to the end will be saved." Mathew 10:22.
How to develop spiritual endurance?
There are five things that you must do to develop spiritual endurance. Understand these five things are not one and done – they are part of a continual lifestyle of following Jesus. In other words, you must continually engage in these five things:
1. Repent
This means we completely give up things that weigh us down.
Attitudes
Sinful habits
Busyness and distractions that weigh you down.
2. Inventory
Take time to discover everything you are doing that is unnecessary and hurting you spiritually.
3. Eliminate
If you aren't willing to eliminate, you haven't truly repented. You must get rid of activities that detract, attitudes that hurt, obligations that encumber, and possessions that demand. Remember, all of these things can and will damage your endurance.
4. Fortify
Do the things that strengthen you spiritually. Start with these three:
Pray. Every prayer you make strengthens your relationship with God. Ask God for help. Worship as you pray. Ask for insight, and be sure to pray for others.
Spend time in the word. Really read your Bible. Study it and hide its words in your heart – memorize scripture.
Fellowship. Spend quality time with other followers of Jesus. There is great mutual encouragement and accountability when you do this.
5. Reproduce
Simply help others through this process. By bringing someone along, we stay committed to the process ourselves.
If you want endurance, you must endure!
Will you commit to this process today?
Start today, and let me know how you are progressing. "One who endures to the end shall be saved" - Jesus.
Have a blessed week,
Pastor Limones
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