April 4

Perseverance

For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again. Proverbs 24:16

 

My water-skiing experience tested my resolve. Falling repeatedly in front of others almost shattered my will. I wanted results, but they were not coming on my timetable. I must have fallen 15 times. I had expected a few falls, but not nearly this many.

 

Somewhere between the third or fourth “power dive” my whole mind-set changed from instant perfection on one ski to simple pit-bull perseverance. Todd, the boat driver, had taught so many people to water ski that he knew I needed to persevere. He wasn’t going to let me quit until I got there, regardless of the fact that my hands were so sore that I could hardly make a fist.

 

Having seen God mold and shape the lives of men over the years, I often feel like Todd the boat driver:  I’ve seen my share of spiritual beginners who are unable to stand up on their single water ski. Being a Christian may look fun and easy, but when the driver slams down the throttle, the beginner pops up on the surface for the briefest moment before losing his spiritual balance ––and splashes again. That can be pretty frustrating, especially after it happens for the tenth time in an hour.

 

Thank God that His expectations are different from our own. Listen to the liberating voice speaking His mind on our spiritual journey as God’s men: “The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn that shines brighter and brighter until the full day” (Proverbs 4:18, NASB). Or, “For though a righteous man falls seven times, they rise again” (Proverbs 24:16). And the way Paul puts it: “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose” (Philippians 2:12-13).

 

These words are worth a thousand images. Whether you are new to the faith and having a hard time navigating this new world called Christianity, or you’ve been a Christian most of your life, the same reminder holds fast: Remember the One who lives in you.

 

Father, Help me be aware that you’re living within me and willing to provide your mighty power and grace for me, your child.