On Perseverance
In Matthew 10:22 Jesus tells his disciples “But don’t quit. Don’t cave in. It is all worth it in the end. (The Message)”
You level the playing field when the key to victory becomes about perseverance and not about mere strength and talent. In high school the big football studs killed it on the football field but almost killed themselves on the long distance running trails. Their training and talent gave them little advantage in long distances. Jesus’ teaching to the disciples is key in that it highlights the value of perseverance something that seems counter to our culture today. In the age of rapid start ups and acquisitions, perseverance seems like a thing of the past. It’s almost like you aren’t doing something right if it requires you to persevere. When it comes down to it, seeing your dream come to fruition requires perseverance! There is no shortcut to accomplishment. This is echoed in the words of the famous tycoon, John Rockefeller when he said:
“I do not think there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature.” -John Rockefeller
I’m reminded that anytime I pursue a vision there will undoubtedly be times that call for perseverance. I have to dig deep and remember that anything worth pursing will require perseverance. No shortcuts. No gimmicks. Just hard work.
