Last week I shared the scripture I will be adopting as my theme for 2021, stating I wasn’t sure what one word would be the focus for me. Sunday, as I sat in church, the word became clear to me. To tell you the truth, I wanted to reject it and pick another word.

The word was PERSEVERE. Why couldn’t it be hope, joy, or promises? Or even the milder words I listed last week: upward, onward, or press on?

I knew in my heart that this was my word. And in the “light” of this year, I saw the need for me to “persevere” into the next.

I looked up the meaning of persevere in several dictionaries, they spoke of continuing or persisting in the face of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement. The light began to switch on. This word is meant as an encouragement. I feel God saying , “I know things are tough, and I know it’s not over yet, but hang in there. It will be worth it.”

I see three specific areas in which I need to persevere: our journey in buying land and building a home, editing and publishing my book series, and the health of my physical body. In all three areas, at the time of this writing, I am facing difficulty, obstacles, and discouragement. At times I can’t see the end. The climb is too steep, and my stamina and motivation have failed me.

My danger is to think that I am persevering on my own, in my own strength. I am not alone. See here:

As for us, we have all of these great witnesses who encircle us like clouds. So we must let go of every wound that has pierced us and the sin we so easily fall into. Then we will be able to run life’s marathon race with passion and determination, for the path has been already marked out before us. We look away from the natural realm and we fasten our gaze onto Jesus who birthed faith within us and who leads us forward into faith’s perfection.

Hebrews 12:1-2a (TPT)

There are many good translations of this verse. I had trouble settling on just one. The encouragement is the same, look around and see the work of God in others, fix your eyes on Jesus, and persevere. God will see you through to the finish line.

Now I have two wonderful scriptures to confirm what God is working in me.

What one word is God speaking to you? What encouragement do you need? Who is next to you speaking life into your difficulties? Hang in there and persevere with me.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay