Friends, we all love the “launch,” the starting line, and the enthusiasm that accompanies new beginnings. Our optimism surges. We anticipate the glorious finish and we rejoice. When we turn that first corner and there is no longer a cheering crowd and our energy begins to flag and the goal is completely out of sight – it is then that we begin to slow down and yes, want to quit. We wonder why we ever thought this was a good goal in the first place. This goal is way too ambitious! This is the very moment when our God is able to help us in a wonderful way. He wants us to confirm that the goal was part of His plan in the first place. If it is, the Scriptures and our own life experiences show us the enormous value of Endurance … the Endurance that represents staying with the tough assignment, putting your head down and pushing past resistance, and doing your best without the immediate pay-off. Those who are building endurance into their lives are the eventual true champions. Coaches who are looking for champions always look for the tough, stick with it qualities. The brilliant start is worthless without the endurance that can carry you to the strong finish. Building staying power, determination, and courage into our personal assignments will build the wonderful endurance that will carry us to God’s goals for our lives. Please take heart. Look around you in the midst of the steep uphill climb. See God’s provisions even in this tough place. Don’t miss out on the benefits of the amazing goal. Press on with endurance through this struggle. Who knows, around this next corner may be the amazing prize! “Let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete; lacking in nothing.” (James 1:4)
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