BoldBelief Devotional

Perseverance in Faith

Add comment3 weeks ago2 min readby Paul Natekin

#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin

Key Bible Verse:

“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.” — Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)

Ever feel like progress in your faith journey is slow, maybe even frustratingly so? Charles Spurgeon, a famous pastor, once used the image of a snail reaching the ark to illustrate the power of perseverance. Let’s explore how this can inspire our own walk with Christ.

Apologetic Insight:

(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.

Just as the snail’s journey to the ark was long and slow, our path to spiritual maturity often requires patience and persistence. William Lane Craig reminds us that, “The life of faith is not a sprint, but a marathon.” This insight ties directly into Hebrews 12:1, where we are encouraged to run with perseverance the race set before us. Our faith isn’t about speed but about enduring through the obstacles and trials. God uses these challenges to refine our character and deepen our trust in Him.

Encouragement & Application:

Remember, even the smallest steps forward in your faith journey are significant. Here are some ways to nurture your perseverance:

Regular Scripture reading: Immerse yourself in God’s Word to find strength and direction.
Prayer: Ask God for the endurance to keep moving forward, even when progress seems slow.
Community: Engage with others who can encourage and support you in your walk with Christ.

Reflection Questions:

What “weights” or sins might be hindering your progress in faith?
How can you remind yourself to persevere when you feel like giving up?

Prayer:

Dear God, I thank You for the example of perseverance found in Your Word and in the lives of those who have gone before us. Help me to cast off what hinders my faith and to run with endurance the race You’ve set before me. Strengthen my resolve to keep moving forward, even when the journey feels long. In Jesus’ name, Amen.