Staying Power
…he endured, as seeing Him who is unseen.
Hebrews 11:27 (NASB1995)
Hebrews 11 is commonly called “the faith chapter.” It’s filled with accounts of those who stand out as shining stars in God’s universe. From Abel to Noah to Abraham…from Rahab to Gideon to David…the list goes on and on.
One of the heroes who gets the most print is Moses. You might expect this in light of the great things he accomplished and the great leadership he displayed.
However, tucked away in the folds of Hebrews 11 is a two-word descriptor worth a second glance: “He endured” (11:27 NASB1995).
The New English Bible translates it: “He was resolute.”
The New International renders it: “He persevered.”
The Living Bible says, “(he) kept right on going.”
The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition puts it: "He held staunchly to his purpose."
And then there’s Moffatt's quaint rendering: "He never flinched."
Moses was the one who hung tough…who refused to give in or give up or give out.
He displayed durability. He had staying power. He endured, despite the criticism of some who were closest to him.
Often the words of those he trusted most cut deeply; but he refused to back off or back down from what God had called him to do. Misunderstood, maligned, murmured against, and misrepresented, Moses never flinched.
Perhaps the greatest character quality this great leader displayed was his unwavering resilience and bulldog tenacity to fulfill God’s calling. And that’s something worth remembering…and emulating.
I have no idea where this finds you – whether you are a pastor, church leader, or simply one who desires to live a faith-filled, God-honoring, Kingdom-advancing life.
For all I know, you are stronger than ever, determined not to shrink back, pressing on with a full tank of resolve. And that's great.
However, you may be getting shaky. Your normally thick hide of moral purity and ethical integrity may be wearing thin. It's possible you've begun to listen too closely to your critics or you've started to need others' approval too much.
Whatever it is you're facing, remember what was said about Moses: “He endured.”
So step up and stand strong. Walk in quiet confidence, not veiled pride. Be sure without being stubborn, firm without being mean, enduring but not discourteous, full of truth balanced well with grace.
Your name might not be written in the pages of Scripture. But your perseverance has been noted in the annals of heaven.
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