The Power of Persistence

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: October 4, 2024

Scripture:

• Matthew 15:28: "Then Jesus said to her, 'Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.' And her daughter was healed at that moment."

• Genesis 32:26: "Then the man said, 'Let me go, for it is daybreak.' But Jacob replied, 'I will not let you go unless you bless me.'"

Devotional Thoughts

Persistence in our walk with God is crucial for breakthrough. In Matthew 15, we read about a Canaanite woman whose daughter was possessed by an evil spirit. She desperately sought Jesus for healing, but at first, she received silence. The disciples urged Jesus to send her away, and even when Jesus spoke, He initially responded in a way that could have discouraged her. Yet, this woman did not give up. Her persistence and faith brought her the miracle she desired.

Similarly, Jacob, in Genesis 32, wrestled with an angel all night. He persisted despite the pain and exhaustion, refusing to let go until he received his blessing. This example teaches us that persistence is often the key to unlocking the blessings and breakthroughs God has for us.

There are times in life when it feels like God is silent, like the answers to our prayers are delayed. The enemy knows this well and often tries to set up obstacles—weariness in health, discouragement in spirit, and challenges in life—hoping that we will give up. Sadly, some give up just before their breakthrough, missing out on the miracle God had waiting for them.

But as Christians, we are called to persist in prayer, fasting, devotion, and doing good. Whatever difficult situation you are facing right now, don't give up. Keep pressing in, just as the woman persisted despite the challenges. Imagine if she had given up—her daughter would not have received healing. Persistence brings victory!

Practical Reflection

Think about a situation in your life where you've been praying for a breakthrough. Have you ever felt like giving up? Maybe you’ve been fasting, praying, and doing all you can, but the answer seems far away. Let this story of the persistent woman and Jacob remind you that God honors persistence. He sees your faith and your determination. Don’t give up at the point of your breakthrough. Keep pressing in, because God is faithful to reward those who seek Him diligently.

You might be on the edge of your miracle, but the enemy will try to distract you with discouragement, fatigue, and doubt. Recognize these tactics for what they are and persist in seeking God. Set aside dedicated time for prayer, engage in fasting if needed, and keep your devotion strong. Your persistence in these spiritual disciplines will strengthen your faith and move you closer to the victory God has for you.

Closing Thoughts

Persistence is an act of faith. It shows God that we trust Him, even when the answers seem delayed. Like the Canaanite woman and Jacob, we must keep pushing through the obstacles, knowing that God’s timing is perfect. Don't allow temporary challenges to rob you of the permanent victory God has planned. Whatever unpleasant thing you’re going through right now, persist in prayer, fasting, devotion, and doing good—your miracle is on the way.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for the power of persistence. Help me to remain steadfast in my prayers and faith, even when the road seems long and the answers seem far off. Strengthen me when I feel weary, and remind me that You are faithful to those who diligently seek You. Just as the woman persisted and received her miracle, and Jacob refused to let go until he was blessed, I declare that I will not give up until I see Your blessing manifest in my life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.