Day 5: Steadfastness

A temperament and perspective that are used for the glory of God

The steadfastness that Peter refers to is anchored in an eschatological hope, the promises of the age to come (Revelation 21.1-7). This hope-centered steadfastness stands in contrast to self-sufficient, pride-filled steadfastness of the Stoics of Peter’s day, in that it places no hope in self, or in this world. Rather, our hope awaits the day when all injustice will be made right (Revelation 6.9-17) and when we can be with our heavenly Father (John 14.2). Therefore, we can maintain hope in spite of present sufferings (Romans 5.1-6). This hope is the fuel for our steadfastness, and this brings glory to God.

• Read 2 Peter 1.5-8
• In what areas of your life is God inviting you to hope-centered steadfastness?

In ministry. Even though I feel that ministry is my work and that there is really nothing else that I could ever do in this world that would satisfy me the way it does, I am extremely susceptible to burnout. I can easily over commit myself and before I know it, I have a mess on my hands that I am often incapable of sorting out and then my frustration turns from the task at hand to the job as a whole. There are so many times that I attempt to do things of my own accord, failing to consult the Spirit, and falling on my face. The problem is that this rarely tends to happen publicly and then the failure that I should be facing before everyone, ends up being a internal failure and often sends me into temporary personal depression.

• How is God inviting you to practice steadfastness within your community?

God has been working on me through these last few months that I have been attending seminary, to help me prioritize my ministry efforts and to keep myself from being spread too thin. He is calling meto focus more of an effort towards overcoming procrastination and the need to put everyone else’s needs before my own, while remaining a servant leader for His church.