per⋅se⋅ver⋅ance   /ˌpɜrsəˈvɪərəns/ 

–noun

1.	steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., esp. in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

Giant's Causeway, Northen Ireland

2.	Theology. continuance in a state of grace to the end, leading to eternal salvation.

So, here’s the deal, I’m the kind of person who when sitting in a theater or restaurant for the first time looks for the exit signs. When I’m driving down the highway I sometimes think about if something happens how I will maneuver out of harm’s way. I’m usually  looking for a way out of pain. I exercise and eat right so that I won’t get diabetes. I take my meds so that I won’t have a heart attack. I go to work on time and give it my best so that I won’t be fired. Some would say these are all good things and I’m not disputing that, but I’m wondering if it might have deeper ramifications in my soul.

Scriptures tell us that:

“tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint”

I am specifically thinking of trials in my life that I’ve been enduring for a long time. I’m looking for the exit ramp, the contingency plan, my release from this pain and frankly, it’s not happening. I’m still stuck in the same situarion, frustrated and unable to escape. So, what’s going on?

Could it be that these trials are building in me perseverance? A steady persistence in spite

of difficulties, obstacles or discouragement? Could it be that God has a bigger goal in mind than my need to escape pain? Could it be that He desires me to have proven character? Does He know that my proven character will yield hope and that hope does not disappoint?

Okay, I know the answer; yes, yes, yes, yes and yes.

So, my encouragement to those of you who like me struggle with a long painful struggle; illness, broken dream, relationship, lack of employment, fear, addiction, let us run with determination this race we have been given to run. Let us lean on those who have been given to us for support and let us finish strong in spite of ourselves. I don’t think we’ll be disappointed.