Faith That Doesn’t Give Up

When I followed the Lord’s leading to Virginia Beach, I expected everything to go smoothly once I arrived, but it didn’t. It was tough. I was discouraged, homesick, and confused. Nothing looked how I thought it would, and I wanted to go home. My job as a server was stressful and physically demanding. I had trouble making new friends and connecting with people at church because I was always working. I felt so alone. I prayed and asked the Lord why nothing looked like I thought it should. His answer? Wait. I have something for you. In that moment, I decided to wait upon the Lord, even though it wasn’t easy. 

Over a decade later, I see how persevering and waiting on the Lord was the right choice. Had I gone home, I would be living a different life. The relationships and connections I have made wouldn’t exist, and I would have never met my husband. Persevering in difficult seasons builds character and helps to strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ. Have you been there? Does anyone come to mind when you hear the words persevering faith?

In Genesis 37-50, the Lord gave Joseph prophetic dreams and the ability to interpret them. Though his initial immaturity in sharing them led to bitterness amongst his brothers, God never abandoned him. Betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned—Joseph endured great hardship without ever cursing God. Despite these trials, “the Lord was with him and caused everything he did to succeed.” (Genesis 39:23 NLT)

Joseph’s pain wasn’t wasted. It was a pathway to purpose. Ultimately, Joseph saved both Egypt and his family from famine, offering compassion instead of revenge—proof of spiritual maturity and trust in God’s plan. Joseph’s story reminds us that faithfulness in suffering can lead to generational blessing and impact far beyond what we can see ourselves.

Ezekiel was called to speak to hard-hearted and rebellious people. The burden of obedience to his call caused a different kind of suffering than Joseph's. He was asked to do bizarre and unusual tasks, but obeyed God fully. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, Ezekiel hid the Word of God in his heart, stood firm on it, and followed through on his call. Even in uncertainty and when things didn’t make sense, Ezekiel chose obedience. He was confident in the Lord’s ability to keep His promises. (See Ezekiel 3:1-17). Ezekiel reminds us that even when the assignment is hard, we are never alone. God is right there with us.

This supernatural, confident, persevering faith in the Lord wasn’t limited to Joseph and Ezekiel. We see it in the lives of Moses, Abraham, David, Daniel, John the Baptist, Peter, Paul, and many more. Time and time again, God has shown His faithfulness to His people. Hebrews 11:33-34 says,

“By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight.” 

God’s supernatural faith helps us persevere even today. Nothing is wasted. What he did for Joseph and Ezekiel, he can do for you, too. Will you pray with me?

Father God, Your Word promises You have good plans for me. Help me to see Your goodness and faithfulness every day and move boldly and confidently on the pathway You have provided, persevering and praising You no matter the obstacle. Let the truth in your Word grow deep into my heart and bear much fruit. Help me as I walk in obedience to your calling upon my life so that others can see your faithfulness through me. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.