Power to persevere

You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord — that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.            — James 5:11

Professional golfer Paula Creamer had worked all year long to earn a berth in the 2008 ADT Championship, the year's final tournament on the LPGA tour. When the event began, however, Creamer was suffering from peritonitis, a painful inflammation of the abdominal wall. Throughout the four days of the tournament, she was in constant pain and unable to eat. She even spent a night in the hospital because of the condition. Still, she persevered to the end and, amazingly, she finished third. Her determination earned her many new fans.

The challenges and crises of life can tax us to the very end of our strength, and in such times it is easy to want to give up. But James offers followers of Christ another perspective. He says that while life is a battle, it is also a blessing: “Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord — that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful” (James 5:11).

In Job’s example, we find encouragement and the power to persevere in life’s darkest hours — power rooted in God, who is compassionate and merciful. Even when life is painful and hard, we can persevere because God is there. His mercy endures forever (Ps. 136).

— Bill Crowder

I searched with all my heart to know

If God was really there;

He graciously revealed Himself,

His mercy, love, and care.        — Cetas

READ: James 5:1-11

God provides the power we need to persevere.

The Bible in one year:

• Zechariah 5-8

• Revelation 19