Perseverance

Pete Kersker - Aug 17, 2026

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings (James 1:1 NIV).

We are currently experiencing the largest power outage northwest Indiana's power company, NIPSCO, has had in their entire history. At it's peak, 60% of their customers were without power. Untold trees are down with those power lines, along with much destruction to property. The devastation is widespread and people are working tirelessly to help themselves, their families, and their neighbors recover from these storms.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance (James 1:2-3 NIV).

It's interesting to read what Goa has to say through James about "trials of many kinds." These are the moments when we have no trouble getting up with purpose in our days. The needs are real. Our words and actions make a difference. Meanwhile, the Lord is at work in and through us. The Lord works in us through these circumstances to make us stronger. The Lord works through us in these circumstances to bring His love into a hurting world.

Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:4 NIV).

How has God used trials to strengthen and mature you?
Have you let God work through you to bless others? How?