James 1:2-4 (NIV)

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

“Really? Consider it pure joy when I face trials. Why in the world do I do that?” you might be asking. Because you know that the tests you face and the process of persevering through them matures you until you are complete, not lacking anything. I don’t know about you, but I love the idea of being complete, a finished product. And, we don’t do it alone. As the Apostle Peter said,  “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.”

When faced with obstacles and problems, it is easy to want to give up, but in order to reach your destiny, you have to fight through those setbacks and unforeseen challenges. The resistance you face is not necessarily a bad sign; it is often a sign that you are on the right path. So, shake off the dust and get back up. Remember this: you cannot climb a smooth mountain. It is the uneven, jagged, and rocky places that create the hand and foot holds you need to reach the top. When it seems like there is no way, remember what Thomas Edison said: “When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this––you haven’t.” When the climb is steep and you’re afraid to go on, ask the Holy Spirit for His strength and guidance to find your next step. 

Ephesians 5:18 (NIV)

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,

Greek scholars note that the Greek present imperative tense is used for the words be filled. It has the implication of an ongoing replenishment, not a one-time occurrence. Truly, when we are filled anew each day with the Spirit, we can successfully persist through the greatest of challenges.

* Taken from my book Life Is Simple, It’s Just Not Easy: 4 Keystone Traits To Live By available on Amazon Prime. In fact, Amazon has it on sale now for just $6.85.