Perseverance Sermon - How to Persevere Through Hard Times as a Christian

Introduction

Life is full of ups and downs. We all face challenges and setbacks along the way. But as believers, we can't lose hope or give up when things get tough. We must persevere, trusting that God has great plans in store for us. In this sermon, we'll explore what the Bible teaches about perseverance and how we can cultivate it in our lives.

What is Perseverance?

Perseverance is steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. It's persistence, grit, and refusal to quit when faced with obstacles. The Bible has a lot to say about perseverance and emphasizes that it's a vital Christian virtue.

Hebrews 12:1 instructs us to "run with perseverance the race marked out for us." This verse compares the Christian life to a marathon that requires endurance and tenacity to finish. Just like a marathon runner pushes through exhaustion, pain, and discouragement to get to the finish line, we as Christ followers must persist through trials to receive the prize of eternal life.

Perseverance Produces Character

Romans 5:3-4 declares, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." This passage highlights how persevering through difficulties builds our character and leads to hope. Each time we overcome struggles, we become spiritually stronger.

James 1:2-4 similarly explains how persevering through trials develops godly maturity in us: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

God Promises to Reward Perseverance

Several verses assure us that persevering in doing good, trusting God, and standing firm in our faith will lead to eternal blessings. Galatians 6:9 says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." And James 1:12 declares, "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."

How to Persevere Through Hardship

Cultivating perseverance requires making a conscious effort to maintain a godly mindset and take action when challenges come. Here are some practical tips for persevering through difficult seasons:

1. Rely on God's strength, not your own

Human willpower will eventually falter, but God's power and strength are limitless. When we feel like giving up, we can turn to Him for renewed strength and endurance. Isaiah 40:31 promises, "...those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

2. Remember God's faithfulness in the past

Reflecting on God's proven track record of getting us through hard times previously can inspire perseverance. Psalm 77:11 says, "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago." This reminds us of God's unwavering faithfulness.

3. Keep your eyes on the eternal reward

Focusing on the eternal perspective allows us to persevere in the here and now. Hebrews 12:2-3 says, "Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

4. Trust God's perfect timing

Waiting patiently on God's timing, rather than demanding our own way or timetable, takes perseverance. But it enables us to experience God's best. As Galatians 6:9 (NIV) says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

5. Find encouragement from other believers

Fellow Christians can inspire us to keep persevering when we feel like quitting. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Perseverance Leads to God's Blessings

Though persevering through hard times isn't easy, it's always worth it because of the blessings it brings, both now and for eternity. As we run the race of faith with tenacity, God will renew our strength and produce maturity and Christlike character within us. Ultimately, our perseverance will lead to the reward of spending eternity with Jesus in heaven.

So don't get discouraged or weary when you face trials! With God's help and empowerment, you can persevere through any hardship. Keep pressing on by faith, and know that your perseverance will produce amazing things in your life now and forevermore!

FAQs

What does the Bible say about perseverance?

The Bible has a lot to say about perseverance and emphasizes that it's a vital Christian virtue. Verses like Hebrews 12:1, Romans 5:3-4, and James 1:2-4 instruct believers to persevere through trials in order to develop godly maturity and character.

Why is perseverance important in the Christian life?

Perseverance is important because the Christian life is filled with hardships, setbacks, and obstacles. By refusing to quit when faced with trials, believers develop strength of character and receive eternal blessings and rewards that God promises to those who persevere.

How can I persevere through difficult times?

Tips for persevering through hardship include relying on God's strength, remembering His past faithfulness, maintaining an eternal perspective, waiting patiently on God's timing, and finding encouragement from other believers.

What are the benefits of perseverance?

Some blessings that come from persevering through trials are growth in Christian maturity, development of godly character, receiving eternal rewards, and experiencing God's strength and power at work in our weakness.

What does the Bible say about perseverance and eternal reward?

Verses like Galatians 6:9 and James 1:12 promise that those who persevere in doing good and standing firm in their faith will receive eternal blessings and rewards. Our perseverance leads to the ultimate reward of spending eternity with Jesus.