Power to Persevere

The topic of conversation at church the past few weeks has been the persecution throughout the world for believers who stand firm for Jesus Christ. There are many faithful men and women who have persevered through difficult trials, even to the point of imprisonment and death, without backing down on what they know to be true. What gives these brothers and sisters the strength to carry on in the face of terrible suffering? What would I do in a similar situation?

I am not a very brave person and I don’t like to take risks. Even when I was a lifeguard, once upon a time, I wondered if I would really be courageous enough to jump in and save someone from drowning. What would I do if faced with the decision to denounce my Savior Jesus Christ or die?

The answer came to me through today’s verse and I put my worries behind me. Even when facing my deepest trials, it is not about me and my strength. God is the One who is able to keep me from falling. He has promised to present me before God’s glorious presence without fault and with great joy. I will not receive the courage I need for future problems now, but at the moment of decision God’s grace will carry me through. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

I remember once when I was working at camp, the leaders organized a staff verses camper softball game. Some very “over-serious” men decided that one young girl couldn’t be on their team because she was not good enough and would probably cause them to lose. The girl was heartbroken and I felt something rise up in me that was not normal. I went up to these intimidating men and very nicely (but  firmly) told them what I thought about their attitude and then suggested the girl join our staff team – because this game was for fun! She joined our team, got a hit, and I think we even won the game.

I don’t know what happened to me, but somehow I rose to the occasion. I believe that if I am ever faced with a difficult decision to stand my ground for Christ, He will not leave me on my own but will give me whatever I need so I can represent Him well.

If you are not a brave person, or even if you are, do not worry about the future. Stay close to the One who is able to keep you from falling and He will present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy. He is the God of all glory, majesty, power, and authority. Trust Him!

Love,

Mama