Seven Things That Help Me Persevere — Bobby McDonald — June 12, 2022
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/seven-things-that-help-me-persevere CFC NA Singles Discipleship Gathering 2022 - Session #13 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that perseverance, or endurance, is vital for a spiritual life to have lasting value. He shares that the key to endurance is love, citing the example of a man working tirelessly for his son. He then details that the first of seven things that help him persevere is consistent prayer, drawing from Luke 18:1 to teach not to lose heart in prayer, viewing it as a necessary refreshment rather than a duty.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why perseverance matters in the Christian lifeThe speaker introduces the theme of perseverance and endurance, reading from Hebrews to encourage believers not to throw away their confidence.
Love is the foundation and driver of enduranceUsing a picture of a father sacrificing everything for his son's education, the speaker illustrates that deep love is what empowers endurance through long, hard trials.
Pray and do not lose heartThe first practical help for perseverance is continuous prayer, which acts as spiritual refreshment during long trials and deep struggles.
Recognize the value of trialsTrials are allowed by God to break us, cleanse us from unseen faults, and make us more like Jesus over the long haul.
Draw close and stay close to GodJust as a tired child prefers sleeping on the hard floor next to her father rather than a comfortable bed away from him, believers find rest and endurance in closeness with Jesus.
Remember God's promises and consolationsWhen anxious thoughts multiply, turning to God's consolations—such as His grace, limited temptation, and provision—delights the soul.
Make a conscious choice to rejoiceBelievers must fight for joy and not be ruled by their emotions, choosing to focus on God rather than self-pity or personal suffering.
Look at the example of others who have enduredExamining the lives and testimonies of faithful saints, like Madame Guyon, encourages believers to press on through suffering with a resigned, happy heart.
Be faithful in simple day-to-day tasksAvoiding idleness and faithfully attending to plain, everyday responsibilities protects the spiritual life from becoming leaky and strengthens endurance.
