The Put God First Challenge

Day 26: Perseverance

James 1

Romans 12

Hebrews 11

2 Corinthians 7

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

I come before You, knowing that life is full of challenges, trials, and moments of weariness. Sometimes, the journey feels too long, the burden too heavy, and the opposition too great. But Your Word encourages me to count it all joy when I face trials because they produce perseverance in me (James 1:2-4). Lord, help me to see difficulties not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth, trusting that You are refining my faith through every struggle.

Father, I confess that there are times when I feel like giving up, when my strength is depleted, and my hope wavers. But Your Word reminds me that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance builds character, and character strengthens my hope (Romans 5:3-5). Let me hold on to that hope, knowing that You are working all things for my good, even when I cannot yet see the outcome. Strengthen my heart so that I will not grow weary in doing good, for in due time, I will reap a harvest if I do not give up (Galatians 6:9).

Lord, as I run this race of faith, I fix my eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of my faith (Hebrews 12:1-2). He endured the cross, despised its shame, and now sits at Your right hand in victory. When I feel overwhelmed, remind me that He, too, faced trials and yet persevered, showing me that endurance is possible through Your strength. Help me to lay aside every weight and sin that tries to hold me back and run this race with endurance.

Father, I know that the hardships I face today are temporary, but the glory You are preparing for me is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). Though my outer self may feel weak, my inner self is being renewed day by day. When I stumble, remind me that You uphold me with Your hand (Psalm 37:23-24). When I feel alone, assure me that after I have suffered for a little while, You will restore me, make me strong, firm, and steadfast (1 Peter 5:10).

Teach me to press forward, forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead (Philippians 3:13-14). Let me not be discouraged by setbacks, failures, or disappointments, but instead, see them as part of the process of becoming more like Christ. Grant me the patience to trust in Your timing and the endurance to keep moving forward, step by step, no matter how slow the progress may seem.

Lord, I desire to finish well. At the end of my journey, may I be able to say, like Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). I long to hear You say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Until that day, help me to persevere, not in my strength, but through the power of Your Spirit. Fill me with renewed energy, hope, and determination to keep pressing on, knowing that You are with me every step of the way.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.