Perspective, Persistence, Power – Part 2

“Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in.” Bill Bradley. I am reminded, the Bible says, “He holds everything together by what He says—powerful words!” Read Hebrews 1:3b (MSG). I see persistence as that auxiliary gear, giving you the extra drive to navigate any type of terrain. The dictionary defines persistence as, “The fact of continuing in an option or course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.” My definition of persistence is, “Persistence is prolonged faith in Gods word, in spite of.” Persistence is your positive response to what you believe God said to you.

Persistence sees no obstacles, ignores boundaries, and per-adventure, if there is a closed door; persistence would keep knocking and seeking the face of God, whilst continuing on its path. Persistence gives you something to live for. A persistent person is resolute, and unmoved; they might wobble a bit, but they would get back on track. See what the Bible says, “Stand firm, and you will win life.” Read Luke 21:19. Be persistent and you will win in this life according to Gods word.

The next thing I am interested to know is where does persistence come from? I believe persistence comes from knowing the will of God. Knowing your purpose and assignment is the first step; and the question we all must ask ourselves is, what is the reason for my existence and birth? What specific purpose have I been called to serve? I like what the scripture says, “Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that…” Read Galatians 6:4 (MSG). In other words, you must understand who you are, and why you have been born for such a time as this, then, immerse yourself into it. When you immerse yourself into something, you become whatever it is your are pursuing.

In our society today, being persistent can sometimes be frowned at or at best mocked, and that is because we live in a fast paced, quick fix, microwave world, where, if one does not see results in seconds, then move on to the next item on the list. Persistence or the lack of it is critically important in our day to day interactions within the family, business, church, government and academic context. Why? Each of these areas demand persistence. Think with me for a moment, you won’t expect a business owner to quit his own company at the face of boardroom opposition or politics; a million times no, he or she would stay the course till the end.

Manifestation is the end result of persistence. Your passion would give birth to persistence. You become what you are pursuing. Persistence gives you a future to look forward to. Selah.

There is a lot to be said about persistence, and who better to take our example from; Jesus. He was persistent to the end, even unto death. The Bible counsels us to be persistent, especially towards God. See what the Bible says, “Let us know; let us press on to know the Lord...” Read Hosea 6:3 (ESV). Beloved, persistence has its roots in “knowing God.” Hence, that is the starting point for us all. Selah.

We write. You read. Be encouraged.