Pressing On
Pressing On: Finding Strength in Life's Challenges
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. We've all had those weeks where everything seems to go wrong, where we're barely keeping our heads above water. In these moments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and ready to throw in the towel. But what if there was a way to press on, to persevere even when the road ahead looks impossibly rough?
The concept of "pressing on" is not just about gritting our teeth and powering through. It's about developing a mindset of perseverance mixed with passion – what some might call "grit." This combination of dogged determination and deep hunger for progress is what separates those who achieve their goals from those who give up along the way.
Consider the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians: "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Paul's life was a testament to perseverance. From shipwrecks to imprisonments, he faced countless obstacles, yet he never lost sight of his purpose.
But how do we cultivate this kind of resilience in our own lives? It starts with a decision – or rather, a pre-decision. We must choose, ahead of time, that we will finish what we start. This commitment to completion is crucial, whether we're talking about a major life goal or a simple household project.
Think of life as a race. Nobody enters a race expecting not to finish. We buy new shoes, we train, we show up at the starting line full of determination. Similarly, in life, we need to approach our goals with the same level of commitment. But here's the key: it's not about focusing solely on the end goal. It's about taking the next step, and then the next one after that.
Breaking down our larger goals into smaller, manageable steps is essential. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the enormity of what lies ahead, we can focus on the immediate next action. This approach aligns perfectly with the wisdom found in Proverbs 16:3: "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." By committing each step to God, we invite His guidance and strength into our journey.
Of course, this doesn't mean the path will always be smooth. James, the brother of Jesus, reminds 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."
Challenges, then, are not just obstacles to overcome but opportunities for growth. When we press on through difficulties, we learn valuable lessons about ourselves and about the God we serve. We develop maturity, resilience, and a deeper faith.
This growth often happens in unexpected ways. Sometimes, what we perceive as interruptions or distractions are actually divine appointments. A delayed project might lead to a meaningful conversation. A setback might force us to reassess our approach and find a better way forward. In these moments, it's crucial to remain open to what God might be teaching us.
One of the most powerful lessons we can learn is the importance of inviting God into every aspect of our lives – including our struggles. It's easy to fall into the trap of trying to handle everything on our own, relying on our own strength and understanding. But true perseverance comes when we lean on God's wisdom and strength.
Proverbs 3:5-6 offers this timeless advice: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." When we submit our plans, our struggles, and our next steps to God, we tap into a source of strength far greater than our own.
As we navigate life's challenges, it's helpful to have a guiding truth to hold onto. Jesus himself offers us these words of comfort and encouragement in John 16:33: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
This verse acknowledges the reality of our struggles – "In this world you will have trouble" – but it doesn't leave us there. It reminds us that in Christ, we have access to peace that transcends our circumstances. Moreover, it assures us that no matter what we face, Jesus has already overcome it.
So how do we put all of this into practice? Here are a few key takeaways:
1. Pre-decide to finish what you start. Make a commitment to perseverance before challenges arise.
2. Break down big goals into manageable steps. Focus on taking the next step rather than becoming overwhelmed by the entire journey.
3. Look for opportunities to grow in the midst of challenges. Ask yourself what you can learn from each situation.
4. Invite God into every aspect of your life, including your struggles. Pray for guidance and strength in all things.
5. Remember that in Christ, you have the power to overcome any obstacle.
Life will always have its ups and downs, its moments of triumph and its periods of struggle. But by cultivating a spirit of perseverance, by pressing on even when the path is difficult, we can grow in faith, maturity, and resilience. We can become people of true grit – not just in our own strength, but through the power of Christ who strengthens us.
So the next time you face a challenge that seems insurmountable, remember: take the next step, look for the lesson, and trust in the One who has overcome the world. Press on, for greater things lie ahead.
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. We've all had those weeks where everything seems to go wrong, where we're barely keeping our heads above water. In these moments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and ready to throw in the towel. But what if there was a way to press on, to persevere even when the road ahead looks impossibly rough?
The concept of "pressing on" is not just about gritting our teeth and powering through. It's about developing a mindset of perseverance mixed with passion – what some might call "grit." This combination of dogged determination and deep hunger for progress is what separates those who achieve their goals from those who give up along the way.
Consider the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians: "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Paul's life was a testament to perseverance. From shipwrecks to imprisonments, he faced countless obstacles, yet he never lost sight of his purpose.
But how do we cultivate this kind of resilience in our own lives? It starts with a decision – or rather, a pre-decision. We must choose, ahead of time, that we will finish what we start. This commitment to completion is crucial, whether we're talking about a major life goal or a simple household project.
Think of life as a race. Nobody enters a race expecting not to finish. We buy new shoes, we train, we show up at the starting line full of determination. Similarly, in life, we need to approach our goals with the same level of commitment. But here's the key: it's not about focusing solely on the end goal. It's about taking the next step, and then the next one after that.
Breaking down our larger goals into smaller, manageable steps is essential. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the enormity of what lies ahead, we can focus on the immediate next action. This approach aligns perfectly with the wisdom found in Proverbs 16:3: "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." By committing each step to God, we invite His guidance and strength into our journey.
Of course, this doesn't mean the path will always be smooth. James, the brother of Jesus, reminds 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."
Challenges, then, are not just obstacles to overcome but opportunities for growth. When we press on through difficulties, we learn valuable lessons about ourselves and about the God we serve. We develop maturity, resilience, and a deeper faith.
This growth often happens in unexpected ways. Sometimes, what we perceive as interruptions or distractions are actually divine appointments. A delayed project might lead to a meaningful conversation. A setback might force us to reassess our approach and find a better way forward. In these moments, it's crucial to remain open to what God might be teaching us.
One of the most powerful lessons we can learn is the importance of inviting God into every aspect of our lives – including our struggles. It's easy to fall into the trap of trying to handle everything on our own, relying on our own strength and understanding. But true perseverance comes when we lean on God's wisdom and strength.
Proverbs 3:5-6 offers this timeless advice: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." When we submit our plans, our struggles, and our next steps to God, we tap into a source of strength far greater than our own.
As we navigate life's challenges, it's helpful to have a guiding truth to hold onto. Jesus himself offers us these words of comfort and encouragement in John 16:33: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
This verse acknowledges the reality of our struggles – "In this world you will have trouble" – but it doesn't leave us there. It reminds us that in Christ, we have access to peace that transcends our circumstances. Moreover, it assures us that no matter what we face, Jesus has already overcome it.
So how do we put all of this into practice? Here are a few key takeaways:
1. Pre-decide to finish what you start. Make a commitment to perseverance before challenges arise.
2. Break down big goals into manageable steps. Focus on taking the next step rather than becoming overwhelmed by the entire journey.
3. Look for opportunities to grow in the midst of challenges. Ask yourself what you can learn from each situation.
4. Invite God into every aspect of your life, including your struggles. Pray for guidance and strength in all things.
5. Remember that in Christ, you have the power to overcome any obstacle.
Life will always have its ups and downs, its moments of triumph and its periods of struggle. But by cultivating a spirit of perseverance, by pressing on even when the path is difficult, we can grow in faith, maturity, and resilience. We can become people of true grit – not just in our own strength, but through the power of Christ who strengthens us.
So the next time you face a challenge that seems insurmountable, remember: take the next step, look for the lesson, and trust in the One who has overcome the world. Press on, for greater things lie ahead.
Posted in Perseverance
Recent
Archive
2025
February