The Bible talks a lot about perseverance. According to Webster, the definition of perseverance is: continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition. One of the more well-known passages in the Bible that speaks about perseverance is Hebrews 12:1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
This passage is so encouraging as we face trials throughout our days. Situations can change quickly, and we can find ourselves entangled in sinful habits, opposition, and other difficulties. But God calls us to keep striving to live the life He calls us to despite the difficulties. The goal we are to seeking to achieve is to bring glory to Him and enjoy Him forever (2 Cor. 5:9). What a high calling! With His strength working in us, we can strive toward that marvelous goal.
This verse in Hebrews often comes to mind when I think about our upcoming Race for Hope event. I’m not a runner in the least, but when I have run, I have found that it takes a lot of endurance to keep going. There always comes a time – usually pretty quickly for me – in which I become very tired, winded, lose proper form, and am tempted to quit. I have only run short distances, and I would imagine our 10k Race would present even more temptation to give up and quit. But when we push through, thinking of the end result – that finish line – we can make it to the end. And with God’s help, in our spiritual race toward Him in eternity, we can keep going and keep our eyes on Him as we strive with perseverance.
We hope you will be reminded of these great truths during this year’s Race for Hope. Perhaps you’re not a runner, but can participate in others ways through walking our 5k, praying for this event, or donating to financially support Vision of Hope. Either way, we pray that God will be glorified and we will keep our eyes fixed on Him as we plan for this event. To learn more about Race for Hope and how you can take part, visit our website here.
