Count it all joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. (James 1:2,3)

Perseverance - so that's what Jesus wants to develop within me/you.  I like the idea of perseverance sometimes more than I like enduring it; do you know what I mean?  I like admiring those who persevere, sometimes more than I like actually doing it myself.

But I know James is right, and when I'm true to myself, I always have a deep sense of inner satisfaction when I prevail, persevere, run the race all the way to the end, stick to it; hang in and hold on - through the tough times and the good times.  And, I always learn more and improve more through the tough times than the good times, doggone it!  The old saying is true: "Adversity - if it doesn't kill you it will make you stronger."

Some days I like that more than others.  How about you?

Dear God, help me today to embrace the life You have given me, with joy, so that I might persevere and persevere well, until that day I meet you face to face - with joy.  Amen