Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. ~ James 1:12

According to Merriam-Webster, persevere is to persist in an undertaking in spite of counter-influences, opposition or discouragement. To carry on, persist, gut it out or hang in there. It originates from two words. Per, through and severe requiring great effort or exacting standard of behavior and self-discipline.

In other words, perseverance requires immense effort and self-discipline, if you plan to see anything through to the other side.

To persevere–to hang in there and not give up (even when everything around you is practically begging you too)–requires work! You’re going to have to roll up your sleeves, pull your hair back, take your earrings off and prepare to fight your way through heartache, doubt, fear, anger or any other obstacle life throws your way. How?

• Read and speak the word over your life; there is power in what you say aloud.
• Be honest about how you feel but do not let those emotions dictate your actions.
• Be patient. Your obstacle didn’t appear over night nor will it dissipate as quickly either.
• Talk about it. Find a trusted friend or counselor and vent about your situation. There is safety in the counsel of others.
• Forgive and release. Harboring offense, angry thoughts or other negative things toward others results in one thing: your misery.

Giving up. Giving in. Neither are an option. We can enjoy the fullness that God intended for us, but to do that we’ve got to be willing to see our painful, cross-bearing circumstances through to the other side. We CAN do this! So, let’s act like we know who we are: blissful treasures of the Most High God; warriors and priestesses who give no ground to their adversary.