As I celebrate my 41st birthday this week, I find myself reflecting deeply on the journey of perseverance — the quiet, steady determination that has carried me through every season of life. Looking back, I realize that many of the blessings I enjoy today were born out of moments when giving up seemed easier, but I chose to press on instead.
About two months ago, my children started attending school for the very first time. It was a big milestone for them — and for me. Between Joel and me, we took turns dropping them off and picking them up. During the first week, Joel helped with the school runs, but by the second week, I had to manage it on my own.
I remember how overwhelmed I felt trying to navigate the route. I got lost more than once, felt anxious behind the wheel, and honestly, I wanted to give up. Something as simple as driving to pick up my kids felt like a mountain I couldn’t climb.
But I kept going. Day after day, I pushed through the fear and frustration. Now, nearly two months later, that same drive has become second nature. I no longer need to think about the route or worry about getting lost. What once felt impossible is now effortless — and that’s the beauty of perseverance.
This simple experience reminded me of a powerful truth: anything worth doing in life requires perseverance. The Bible says in James 1:12, “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.” Every challenge we face is an opportunity for growth — a chance to build endurance and faith.
There was a time I could have given up — not just on driving, but on many other things in life. Yet, each time I chose to keep going, God strengthened me.
Romans 5:3–4 reminds us that “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Perseverance is not just about finishing a task — it’s about becoming who God designed us to be through the process.
When I think about my 41 years of life, I see a pattern of God’s faithfulness woven through every trial. The moments I thought I couldn’t make it were the very moments He was shaping me. The victories I celebrate today — in my faith, family, and personal growth — are the fruits of not giving up when things got hard.
So, this birthday, I’m celebrating more than just another year of life. I’m celebrating the power of perseverance — the grace to keep going, the strength to trust God’s timing, and the joy of seeing His promises unfold.
If you’re in a season where things feel difficult or uncertain, take heart. Don’t give up. Keep pressing forward. As Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Perseverance is rewarding — and with God by your side, every step forward is a step closer to His purpose for your life.
| Consider This Keep going even when it’s hard. God builds strength in the struggle — don’t quit before you see the fruit. Trust His timing. The waiting season is often the training ground for the promise. Remember His faithfulness. Look back at how far He’s brought you; it will give you courage for the road ahead. |
