English writer Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), a great contributor to English literature as a poet, playwright, essayist, moralist, and literary critic, once wrote: “Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.”

I like what Blog writer Corinne Coppola says about that quote. That it may be short, but it has a lot of meaning behind it. Sometimes, less says more. The point that this quote is trying to make is that, one of the most important things in life is having the will to preserve even when things get tough. Perseverance means more than just trying, it means putting everything you have into something. Perseverance gives you the will, strength, and the heart to do anything that you put your mind to. You may have all the strength in the world, but if you do not have the perseverance to push yourself when things get tough, strength means nothing.

Also, Dallas lawyer Jack Robinson noted that President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said that when you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on. Perseverance is a very important character trait for you to be successful in life. It means determination at working hard regardless of any odds or obstacles that may exist. It is to insist and to be firm on getting something done and not giving up. In life we will not always have things going our way all the time, sometimes we will falter or fail at completing a task or getting what we want. However, by persevering and sticking to the task we will eventually overcome and be successful. For example, if Thomas Edison, the American Inventor, who invented the electric light bulb, had given up the first time he failed; maybe this marvelous invention might not have been a possibility as early as 1879. Resigning and walking out the door is never a good answer; however, persevering to the end usually reaps great rewards.

But I like best what the Apostle James said about perseverance. He tells us that great blessings belong to those who are tempted and yet remain faithful! After they prove their faithfulness, God will give them the reward of eternal life. God promised this to all people who love Him.¹ And the Apostle Paul reminds us that we must not get tired of doing what’s right. We will receive our harvest of eternal life at the right time. We must never give up.²

However, Jesus said it best when He told His disciples that there will come a day when so much evil will be in the world that the love of many believers will grow cold. But the one who remains faithful to the end will be saved. And the Good News He shared about God’s kingdom will be told throughout the world. It will be broadcast to every nation. Then the end, and the rewards will come. – Dr. Robert R Seyda