“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.”  Romans 5:3-4 NKJV

From a little girl, I can remember wanting to do things right, even when it was beyond my skill level. My nature is to stick with a task until I am satisfied, no matter how long it takes. I love doing things well or precise.

My most memorable focused moments from childhood are those sitting at my mother’s pedal Singer sewing machine making clothing for myself. My mother began teaching me to use her machine when I was 8 or 9 years old. I developed a love for the craft. I would sit at the machine for hours sewing, ripping out seams, and resewing until it was properly sown. 

Shedding tears and soliciting my mother’s help was a common occurrence during those days because I didn’t want my sewing to look homemade—sloppy. My mother was an excellent seamstress, and I wanted my garments to mimic hers. So, I didn’t mind devoting the time and effort to make my clothes look as professional as possible. Of course, I failed short of the mark, but it wasn’t for lack of trying. Determination has always been one of my distinctions.

Our fast-paced society encourages quick fixes and immediate gratification—reducing tenacity to a lost virtue. Technology has done its share to satisfy the instantaneous appetite. 

Culture norms will continue to shift; however, God’s methods and plans will not be affected by them. He declares, “…I am the Lord, I do not change” (Malachi 3:6). Those whom He is molding into Christ-likeness will traverse the school of tenacity. There is no way to bypass it or test out. The patriarchs of old and the children of Israel are witnesses to this fact.

My beloved, if you are going to achieve anything for God, it takes perseverance, steadfastness, and endurance. Tenacity is built into God’s Master curriculum. 

Don’t despair, there are rewards for stick-to-itiveness. My many hours of crying, ripping out seams and resewing them resulted in big dividends. I was invited by the United States government to exhibit my line of children’s clothing at the International Children’s Fashion Show in Paris, France, in 1989. They were also featured in the Washington Post fashion section in 1986 and sold in high-end boutiques and stores in the U. S. including Puerto Rico.

Hang in there, you can do it!

Pray…

Lord, I need Your help, because I don’t like waiting for results. I realize pressing the delay button is Your way of developing character and perseverance in me. Please give me the wherewithal to relax and allow You to do what’s necessary to mold me into the likeness of Your Son. Amen.

Posted by on Wednesday, October 30th, 2019 @ 10:17AM
Categories: Empowering, Encouragement, Inspirational