GOD’S RELENTLESS LOVE

It's safe to give ourselves up to God's love.  He created us out of love and His love is never wearied or worn out by our sins.  He is relentless in His pursuit of us and in His determination that one day we will be pure love, at whatever cost to us or to Himself.

"Good and upright is the Lord," the psalmist reminds us, "therefore He instructs sinners in His ways.  He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way" (Psalm 25:8-9, italics added).  The only requirement is humility and the patience to wait for His working.  God is not known for haste, but He does mean business. 

-- David Roper in “Growing Slowly Wise” 

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DETERMINED -- NOT STUBBORN

Determination is a hallmark of godly character.  God doesn't want His people to be hopeless and discouraged -- rather He expects them to be faithful and persistent.  "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7).  However, neither does God want His people to be stubborn.  Let's be careful not to confuse stubbornness with determination.  Whereas stubbornness is like a mule kicking and balking at every turn, determination is like a racehorse striving to cross the finish line victoriously.  According to Scripture, a stubborn heart is disobedient (Romans 10:21), foolish (Ephesians 4:18) and destined to be destroyed (Proverbs 29:1). 

-- Dr. Norm Wakefield & Jody Brolsma in “Men Are from Israel, Women Are from Moab” 

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COURAGE

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  (Joshua 1:9 ESV)

Criticism challenges it -- adventure arouses it -- danger incites it -- threats quicken it.  COURAGE -- another word for inner strength, presence of mind against odds, determination to hang in there, to venture, to persevere, to withstand hardship.

-- Charles Swindoll in Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life

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WHOLEHEARTED PERSEVERANCE

What is so striking about a determined spirit?  Why do stories of courage and tenacity inspire us?  Why do we seek out and follow heroes who model wholehearted perseverance?  How does another person's determination motivate us toward excellence?

The Bible clearly shows that perseverance is an outward expression of good character or integrity.  Whether it's called courage, tenacity, resolve, determination, steadfastness or persistence -- God calls us to model a commitment to Him and His plans.

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4).

-- Dr. Norm Wakefield & Jody Brolsma in Men Are from Israel, Women Are from Moab

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