Mental strength.
Mental toughness.
Grit.
Perseverance.
The ability to begin AND steadfastly continue on the path towards a goal. Even when accosted by failure and adversity.
Why do some individuals persevere and achieve their goals and others do not?
Angela Duckworth and her colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania “grit” research suggests:
“The quality that distinguished star performers in their respective fields was not necessarily talent but exceptional commitment to ambitions and goals.”
“Sticking with things over the very long term until you master them.”
“The gritty individual approaches achievement as a marathon; his or her advantage is stamina.”
When it comes to achievement under challenging circumstances. Grit may be as essential as intelligence. Something the Proverbs 31 woman has mastered.
Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and secure. She smiles at the future knowing that she and her family are prepared. (Proverbs 31:25)
Gritty individuals are
- not seekers of change solely for the novelty of the experience.
- passionate and resilient because of a positive response to adversity and failure.
- intentional about identifying and strengthening personal weaknesses.
- consistently practicing skills.
- willing to sacrifice and delay gratification.
- not satisfied with the status quo.
- convinced there are no limits to how much can be understood, learned or accomplished.
Although a desirable character trait, perseverance is in short supply today. Refusing to accept there are no shortcuts on the journey towards your Kingdom destiny. Many believers settle for spiritual mediocrity.
Yes, there will be seasons of drought when it appears progress has come to a complete standstill. Even so, do not be discouraged. It is during these seasons of “drought” when the Lord is asking His children to enlarge their faith. To keep their eyes— heart focused on what He has called them to do for His Kingdom. So that He can transform them into oaks of righteousness that display His glory to a darkening world.
This is why more than ever you must examine yourself to see if your faith is genuine. Genuine faith
- willingly chooses to please God more than others. Rejecting anything that contradicts the Word of God or hinders your spiritual transformation.
- breaks free of the bondage of fear. By placing your confidence in the trustworthiness of the Lord. Safety, security and comfort no longer dominate the decision making process.
In the book of Revelation perseverance is repeatedly discussed. Time and time again Christ reminds us that if we will persevere. Overcome. Conquer. There are promises— blessings awaiting us here on earth and in eternity.
Christ promises. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone with a new name written on the stone. That no one knows except the one who receives it. (Revelation 2:17)
Biblical names always had significance, usually a commentary on the individual’s character. Whenever God renamed someone. It reflected a change in character.
Jacob the one who take somebody’s place or position by force or intrigue. Became Israel— God prevails.
Abram the exalted father became Abraham the father of a multitude.
Sara the princess became Sarah the noble woman.
What if the name that is written on your white stone is a reflection of your new heart?
Liar— Guardian of Truth.
Bully— Peacemaker.
Thief— Philanthropist.
Slanderer— Exhorter.
Cynic— Dreamer.
If you have received the Lord’s Manna— Jesus into your heart, the Holy Spirit— God’s Spirit lives in you. Obey His still small voice. If you will live a life of obedience and holiness. The Holy Spirit will reveal more and more of the mysteries of the Kingdom to you. Including who God created you to be.
Are you ready for a name change?
Be a VOICE in the deafening sound of sameness!
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