The Promise of Perseverance

PERSEVERANCE THROUGH PAIN

Those of us who deal with chronic illness, chronic pain, or mental illness know the challenge of maintaining faith through long-term affliction. Prayers not answered as we hoped, unpredictable and worsening symptoms, people’s lack of compassion, and the unwelcome emotional roller coaster cause us to question God’s care. The cumulative weight can feel unbearable.

Biblical perseverance implies endurance, steadfastness, and constancy. For me, that is only possible through Christ. The promise of Romans 5:3-5 infuses fresh courage: 

We glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

FROM HEARTACHE TO DIVINE HOPE

This progression from heartache to divine hope and love sounds amazing, yet I often have trouble experiencing it. As I’ve asked the Lord for help, He’s given me three phrases to frame my thinking: saturated with Scripture, fortified in worship, carried by grace.

To be saturated with Scripture, I take time in the morning, early afternoon, and bedtime to reflect upon God’s Word. I start the day with a longer portion, add Scripture Breath Prayer mid-day, and end with a short devotional at night. If I can’t sleep, I listen to Michael W. Smith’s recording Still. Hearing Bible passages spoken aloud, accompanied by instrumental music, enables me to rest.

To stay fortified in worship, I integrate praise music into my daily rhythm whenever possible, even in the kitchen. Worshipping during food prep or clean-up sparks joy! Evenings frequently find me at the piano, playing songs and hymns.

Lamentations 3:21-23 and 2 Corinthians 12:9 remind me of the Lord’s steady care when I think about being carried by grace. Remembering His past faithfulness inspires faith for the present moment. Admitting desperate dependence frees me to release and entrust concerns to Him. 

PERSEVERANCE IN PRESENCE

Remaining present (with the Lord and with people) is a vital yet challenging part of perseverance. Maintaining authentic connection is hard when chronic pain, illness, or mental illness drains body and soul. 

MAINTAINING CLOSENESS WITH GOD

Through the years, I’ve learned the language of lament (portrayed vividly in Scripture) as an avenue for closeness with God. Lament enables us to pour out honest emotions while also affirming His goodness. 

Not long ago, I felt overwhelmed by waves of disappointment, with hope drowning in the depths of despair. I repeatedly cried, “I’m SO tired of this fight!” Through tears, my prayer eventually shifted. “But Lord, I will trust You. Please show me what to do.” 

He led me to the Chronic Joy printable: Praying and Writing the Psalms. Because Psalm 42 had comforted me in the past, I followed the printable’s format for delving into it. As time passed, my heart began to calm. I realized the turmoil I’d been experiencing was simply part of life rather than a sign of weakness or reason for shame. Weariness lifted as the Holy Spirit reassured me of God’s compassion. The enemy of my soul had tried to pull me away from the Lord, but He drew me close and provided the help I needed. (Hebrews 4:16)

STAYING PRESENT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Chronic pain, illness, and mental illness also make it harder to stay present with family and friends. When we don’t feel well, the temptation to isolate is real. Even when we make plans, unexpected symptoms may cause us to cancel, discouraging us from trying again. Yet Scripture and social science affirm human connection as essential. We are created to love and be loved, however we are able.

My specific struggles curtail my capacity for conversation and group gatherings. I’ve shifted primarily to brief one-on-one visits or communication via texting, e-mail, and letter writing. I still long for a broader social sphere, but have discovered surprise blessings in the power of small. Relationships have deepened and become sweeter due to my limits, whether with our grandchildren or other individuals. Focused presence is a powerful gift. 

PERSEVERANCE FOR GOD'S PURPOSE

When I’m suffering, I have a tough time imagining any good outcome. Yet when I return to Romans 5:3-5, I see a path toward hope, with character as a bridge to that destination. The biblical definition of character implies proving through affliction. Will we be known for 

• faith or fear
• gratitude or griping,
• being steadfast in prayer or stuck in self-pity?

The Lord desires to transform us from the inside out, inviting us to say Yes to whatever He allows to accomplish His purposes.

Chronic Joy co-founders Pamela Piquette and Cindee Snider Re provide wise insight: Suffering isn’t meant to be a destination, but a journey of surrender.

Perseverance and surrender may seem contradictory, but I believe they are inseparable. The ability to persevere demands a willingness to let go, trusting in God’s plans rather than my own. 16 Verses to Ignite Hope (a Chronic Joy printable) offers relevant encouragement, including Christ’s invitation to rest (Matthew 11:28-30). Receiving His renewal day by day makes all the difference. As author Elisabeth Elliott observes in A Path Through Suffering: The Lord stands ready, with the next grace, for the next thing.

HE IS ENOUGH

On the reverse side of my neighbor’s yard sign is the phrase "You Are Enough." Yet, when I consider the pain and anxiety of daily life, I know this is not true. Praise God for His limitless help! Through Him, we humbly sustain perseverance and embrace the promise of hope. Hallelujah!

PRAYER

Dear Lord, You know the weariness we feel because of chronic challenges. You understand why we’re tempted to give up. Thank You for inviting us to share every hurt and frustration honestly. Please renew our ability to press on, especially when trouble comes in waves. We cling to Your Word as the anchor amid life’s storms. We hold fast to Your love and goodness. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• What is one aspect of your life right now that requires perseverance?
• How is this one challenge impacting your overall attitude and actions?
• Where in Scripture can you find fresh hope? (Review 16 Verses to Ignite Hope. Choose one to post where you will see it often, and read it aloud at least once a day.)