Faithul Endurance

My First paragraph with bold text.

Day 5  Faithful Endurance 

James 5:7-8, NIV  7 Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 

   As a student athlete, patience is a virtue that can be applied to almost any aspect of my life. In volleyball, it can be difficult to hold on to patience. You can practice for hours, do hundreds of drills, and condition endlessly, only to still make mistakes in the next fame. Our progress doesn’t always show right away, and it can feel like our hard work isn’t paying off. Scholl can feel the same, hours of studying and stressing, hoping that things might suddenly ‘click.’  

James reminds us that growth takes time and that we might not see what our efforts yield right away. Just like a farmer is patient, waiting for the rain to come, we must also be patient and trust God’s timing even when we don’t see the results. Faithful endurance means showing up, doing our best, and believing that God is working behind the scenes, on the court, in the classroom, and in our hearts.  

This time of Advent serves as an extra reminder that waiting is not wasted. Putting our faith in God and staying patient for his plan builds our character for the better. Having faithful endurance proves that God’s plan and promises for us are worth the wait.  

Reflect: In what aspect of your life is God wanting you to be patient and trust His plan. In which everyday activities can you practice faithful endurance?  

Prayer: Lord, give me the strength to trust You in Your plan, even when I may not see progress. Give me patience and endurance in this season of Advent and through every season of life. I know Your plan for me is good. Amen.  

Marissa Wall  Youth Council Missions Chair