| 1:27 min read |

Have you been under pressure recently? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “pressure” as “the burden of physical or mental distress; the constraint of circumstance; the application of force to something; the stress of urgency of matters needing attention.”

We really don’t need a formal definition to understand pressure. We know when it’s affecting us. It pushes forcefully and painfully on our mind and soul. We feel the weight of it in our hearts. We battle under the dark cloud of the worry and weariness it generates.

What’s the best way to handle pressure? You must press in and press on! Look at what James the apostle wrote about this in James 1:12 (NIV) “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

The key word in this verse is “perseveres.” To persevere is to keep going when everything is pressuring you to quit. It’s to bear up without resignation, with hope and confidence of eventual victory. It’s tenacity of faith, steadfastness in service, strength of heart and depth of commitment that causes you to stay the course.

Perseverance is all about pressing in and pressing on when life pressures come your way. It’s holding on to the promise that you’re going to make it, when it feels like you’re done. Don’t forget, people who press in and press on are rewarded for their perseverance!

Pastor Dale