Perseverance
As we reflect on the obstacles, setbacks, tragedies and accomplishments of
our people, past and present, there are several common characteristics that
they exhibited to maintain their focus on the reality of bringing to life their
ideals and principles. One such characteristic is Perseverance.
Perseverance can be defined as maintaining a steady and persistent course of
action in spite of seen and unforeseen difficulties. Persecution, legal
segregation, and rampant injustice are just a few of the hurdles that African
Americans transcended on our plight to equality in a society that deemed
equivalent to an animal. In spite of these dire circumstances, God prepared and
ordained several powerful people, who accepted the task with pride, to bring
about justice for our people. Perseverance became a rooted quality among these
individuals that allowed them to stand, speak, and conquer all odds when it
seemed as if the entire world was against them. Because of their ability to not
become intimidated or discouraged, we are able to reap the harvest of equality cultivated
by their blood, sweat and tears.
When I think on these things, I know without a shadow of a doubt, that the
Spirit of the Lord was upon them and within them. I think of how Christ
persevered when He carried His own cross all the way to Calvary, despising the
shame and insults. He never thought of Himself, but of those that He loved, us!
His Spirit was indeed with our ancestors and is currently with us. We should be
honoured that we are part of the family of Christ, as well as a legacy of
people who persevered through tremendous hardships to accomplish a brighter
future for generations to come.
Meditate on this scripture that encourages perseverance:
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in
despair, persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed!! (2
Corinthians 4:8-9).
~Toni H.
~Toni H.
I couldn't agree more. Society today promotes the band aid cure for everything. Perseverance requires endurance. And that lasting strength can only be found in one place. There is still plenty that needs to be changed. But that will not happen until we understand what it means to stand firm and persevere until that change comes.
ReplyDelete