Perseverence

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. James 1:12 NIV

Giving up. Giving in. Quitting. These are options that seem easy, especially when the going gets tough. Our academy participated in a martial arts tournament this past weekend. I saw some students just quit in the middle of their form or during a sparring match. They didn't have it in them to finish. I also saw some keep fighting through and finish even if they didn't win. For some who kept on going, they received a medal, even if they didn't place. It signifies that they didn't quit. All their training and hard work stood for something. Athletes of all disciplines know that hard work does pay off if you can fight through the times where someone else was better or endure an injury.

Here on earth we may win a medal or even 15 minutes of fame for persevering. But eternity with the king awaits those who push through what life throws at us. It can be hard some days to keep going, but we must. God will help us through anything. We only need to call on him.

So the next time you feel like giving up, remember that God didn't give up on you.