"Steadfast Through God’s Strength" - Perseverance Prayer
One of the few guarantees of life is that it will be hard, there will be difficulties, and things will go wrong. For Christians, there is also the guarantee there will be persecution, hardship, and spiritual warfare on top. Metaphors for life used in the Bible include a race, a storm, and a harsh wind.
One of the traits and spiritual fruits that God gives to humanity to endure the trials and tribulations of this life is perseverance, which is defined by the dictionary as “steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. In theology, it is continuance in a state of grace to the end, leading to eternal salvation.”
Both definitions apply to the way this word is used in the Bible. The Christian life requires steadiness, purpose, and consistency. The trials, tribulations, and temptations of living in a fallen world require it, but in the end, there is eternity with the living God. Perseverance can be a difficult strength to call upon, which is why people are encouraged to ask the Holy Spirit for it, rather than relying on their own strength.
When times get tough, or something you have been working hard for is not happening as quickly as you think it should, it can be hard to keep pushing forward. Here is a powerful prayer for perseverance.
Prayer:
God of Hope, You are the Almighty God. Your Power is supreme and You are without equal.
We thank You for graciously giving us the privilege of being empowered according to Your glorious might. Please give us enough strength to endure life’s tribulations so that we will not be tempted to give up.
Empower us with courage and confidence so that we can be patiently calm in the middle of distress, and not fall into despair and hopelessness. With overflowing joy, we thank Your loving empowerment, and the peace it brings. Amen.
Prayer for Perseverance with Patience
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