January 6-Perserverance

Scripture Lesson: James 1:2-4

The Hall of Fame Committee in 1972 elected Early Wynn to the Hall. In his 23 year career spanning four decades, spent with the Washington Senators, Cleveland Indians, and the Chicago White Sox, Wynn was well known for his persistence in pitching. He amassed 300 wins with an ERA of 3.54. Wynn also pitched 290 complete games, pitching a total of 4564 innings, while pitching to 19,408 batters striking out 2,334. The seven- time All Star was one who worked hard and made his mark in baseball history.

James shows us in today’s lesson that when we are tested in our faith we develop perseverance. Perseverance is defined as steadfastness in doing something despite great difficulty or delay in achieving success. When we go through tough times in life we need to realize that those tough times can bring our faith to maturity. I don’t know about you but going through tough times makes it hard to be joyful as James tells us to be. When we have the faith that sustains us through the difficult times in life, our faith will mature. The more we mature in our faith, the stronger, more vital, and alive our faith will become.

1. Reflect on a time when going through tough times made your faith stronger.
2. Was it easier or harder the next time tough times happened? Why or Why not?
3. How can your perseverance in your faith help someone else to persevere through their tough times?

Maturity comes in our faith when we persevere no matter what the situation. Even though none of us look forward to challenging times in our lives, James reminds us to realize the tough times helps our faith become stronger. Perseverance through tough times is a blessing!