Build Steadfast Endurance

 

To build our physical bodies we workout with isometrics, Pilates, aerobics, calisthenics, walk, and/or run. We discipline ourselves with healthy foods and lifestyles.

Sometimes we enlist the help of a partner or trainer. We join clubs or buy home-gym equipment. We set goals with timeline charts. We sign up for marathons and the like. All for the purpose of a healthier, mean-lean body.

 

The main key to it all is: C-O-N-S-I-S-T-E-N-C-Y

The same is true for building our spiritual bodies. We enlist accountability partners, join Bible study groups, attend church, read our Bibles and pray. To grow and mature a healthy spiritual life and to build our steadfast endurance, Christians must “exercise” their faith.

Peter, also, tells in the first chapter of his 2^nd book, some necessary character qualities to being healthy Christians.

“With Diligence (attentiveness, persistence)

Employ every effort in exercising your faith

Develop Virtue (moral excellence, integrity)

As you exercise virtue

Develop Knowledge (intelligence, understanding)

As you exercise the knowledge

Develop Self-control (discipline, restraint)

As you exercise self-control

Develop Steadfastness (patience, endurance)

As you exercise steadfastness

Develop Godliness (piety, holiness)

As you exercise godliness

Develop Brotherly Affection (kindness, thoughtfulness)

As you exercising brotherly affection

Develop Christian Love (unconditional, charity,  

see 1 Corinthians 13)

For as these qualities are yours

and increasingly abound in you,

they will keep [you] from being idle

or unfruitful unto the [full personal] knowledge

of our Lord Jesus Christ

(the Messiah, the Anointed One)” 

2 Peter 1:5-8 (amplified bible)

Sadly, many—or most—of us fail greatly on our living

a consistent healthy physical and spiritual lifestyle. 

And so, there is grace…the amazing unmerited mercy and forgiveness.

However, let us strive to Build our Steadfast Endurance by exercising our Christian Faith

Further reading: 2 Pet. 1:11; 3:17-18; Col. 2:3; Acts 24:25; 1 John 3:2

"Amazing Grace” sung by Michael W. Smith