Developing endurance through the perilous waters of life.

Written by Desiree Bustamante.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”
James 1:2-4 New Living Translation

I enjoy watching people in kayaks on the Arkansas River. Those who are experienced glide down the river with ease. When they reach a section with forceful rapids, or unexpected currents, they navigate through it like experts. They end up coming out on the other side wet, but upright. They continue on their path without any hesitation.

While they make it look easy, the skills to navigate the water took preparation. This photo shows a section of water where people in kayaks often practice their techniques in gaining whitewater skills. I’ve seen them train for over an hour each time, learning what direction they must take to avoid tipping over, while gaining strength, and endurance, to handle the demands of the river’s challenges.

Living the Christian life takes a lot of endurance. Navigating the strong currents of temptations, and the powerful waves of trials, can be so overwhelming that we fear we may drown. Living in a world full of evil takes patient endurance to stay strong.

It’s also sometimes unimaginable that we can face these struggles with rejoicing. However, when the people in kayaks practice their techniques and see their progress in mastering the difficulties…they are pleased, knowing they will be stronger when they face the next challenge. How much more we can rejoice when our Lord guides us through whatever is before us, and our endurance grows!

Remember how you felt when you came through something, and looked back at where you started? You knew your faith was now stronger, your love for your Savior, and trust in Him, increased, and you knew you would have the experience, and resilience, to face adversity again. So, when your faith is tested, know that God wants to increase your patience, and endurance, to face whatever life brings. Stay close to your Lord and Savior, for he is your only hope of salvation.

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.”
Romans 5:3-4 New Living Translation

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado