Morning Coffee With JamesSample

Keep Going!

Read James 1:3-4

God's Word to Them...

The early church consisted almost entirely of new converts. Immature in their faith, they experienced a great deal of pressure because of their decisions to follow Christ. James encouraged them to persevere during the difficult times. He longed to see them grow and become mature in their faith.

God's Word to Us...

If an athlete wants to improve his skill, he must allow himself to face pressure beyond what he has faced before. He must continue through that pressure, or he will not grow. A runner must push himself to run faster, longer than he has in the past. A weightlifter must gradually increase the amount of weight he lifts. In the same way, the Christian must continue to face the pressures of this life. Each time we endure successfully, the pressure seems a little less the next time.

Perseverance is one thing that cannot be rushed. To develop perseverance, we must endure pressure over a period of time. God provides no easy way to maturity, to completion. We simply must persist through the difficulties of this life, finding strength through our faith in God.

Cream and Sugar...

In what area of your life do you need to become more mature? Write down three things you can do to become stronger in that area.

Dear Father, thank You for giving me everything I need to persevere and to grow into the person You created me to be. During the difficulties of this life, help me to endure as I focus on You. Amen.

The Last Drop...

“Nothing great was ever done without much enduring.” —CATHERINE OF SIENA