Monday the 20th

2 Thessalonians 3: 5 (NIV)

May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance.

 

Have you ever noticed that you never see a picture of Christ smiling? He always has a very determined look set on his face. In short it is due to his perseverance. Christ walked the world under a timetable. Yet he never seemed rushed, no one ever described him as overly excited, or high strung. Christ had patience, and he persevered through the most difficult times with grace. In this verse the King James version uses the word patience, the English Standard version uses the word steadfastness. The translated Greek word is hupomone from the root word hupomeno meaning have fortitude, persevere: - abide, endure. Why do I point this out? It is important to remember that while we often think of love, and compassion as important traits of Christ, we should never overlook his fortitude. No matter the obstacle Christ took it head on, he saw the goal not the obstacle. He put his shoulder to the proverbial grindstone, and went to work, he did not let up until he was finished. This is a trait that we too should mirror when it comes to our faith.

 

In John 11 verse 9 Christ asks his disciples “are there not twelve hours of daylight?” This gives us an idea of Christ’s mindset. 12 hours of daylight, plenty of time to accomplish what needs to be done, yet the darkness is coming, and we don’t have a lot of time to stand around and feel defeated, or rush though things only to have to go back and do them over a second time. We must be steadfast, we must persevere. May we all be directed into God’s love, but let us all remember to have the patience, the steadfastness, and the perseverance to carry on in the name of Christ.

 

Peace,

Brian