‘Always give yourselves fully.’ 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV

Next time you pass a McDonald’s, think about this statement from the one of the founders: Ray Kroc. ‘Press on! Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not: unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.’

As you read about the heroes of faith listed in Hebrews chapter 11 you discover that they shut the mouths of lions, administered justice, fulfilled promises, and even raised the dead. It’s a spectacular list of accomplishments. But in the middle of the account you also find these words: ‘Whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle.’ (Hebrews 11:34 NIV) Notice, they started out weak and became strong. How? Through persistence and determination! The problem is we’re not always willing to fight for what we want. But without conflict there can be no conquest.

An Anglican bishop once quipped, ‘Why is it that everywhere the apostle Paul went they had a revolution, but everywhere I go they have a cup of tea?’ Paul didn’t blend in, he stood out! On his first missionary journey he was stoned and left for dead. On his second they threw him in prison. And how did he handle it? On one occasion he prayed and praised God until his prison doors opened. So the word for you today is: ‘Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully.’ If you’re looking for a statement of purpose to live by, adopt this one.

SoulFood: Ezek 22–23, Matt 22:23–33, Ps 142, Pro 19:21–23

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