When we think of perseverance, it’s often accompanied with a small (maybe large?) sigh. Nicer words like endurance and progress come to mind during the good days. And then there are the not-so-good days when rut, slog and mired-down dominate our thoughts with absolutism. As writers, we’ve all been there—the words come, the words are useless, the words don’t come at all.
The very definition of perseverance is like an ominous flag waving in assurance of a labor-intensive path. My online dictionary defines it as: doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. Sheesh! That’s exciting, huh? The apostle Paul knew all about perseverance and wrote consistently of his perspective on the topic. My particular favorite verse is found in Philippians 3:13-14 which says, “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Writers are, indeed, called to write. What God allows us to do with our words is up to Him. Our mission is to get those words out. Perseverance is a gift that overcomes anything the enemy throws our way. A book that is never written never gets published. An article that is never submitted never has the chance for other eyes to digest it. A devotional never thought-through and read can never touch the heart and soul of another individual. God knows this. Unfortunately, so does the enemy.
Perhaps we should view perseverance as the weapon that reinforces our actions for God when we commit to the simple act of getting up each day and trying again. What do you think? Is perseverance our friend?
Blessings on your writing journey,
Melanie Stiles
centralhoustoniwa.com 
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