Recently, I’ve been working with some friends on the concepts of accountability and perseverance. It’s curious to me that some of us are blessed with an internal motivation system, while others rely on the ability to be accountable to others. Both approaches have their merits and can culminate in successfully reaching desired goals. There might be a definitive moment when we ascertain the locus of control as internal or external, or maybe it’s entwined with the intricacies of the journey.

The key, it seems, is to persevere through the obstacles that surround us when we determine to accomplish a task or adjust a standard of living. According to the Oxford Dictionary, perseverance is “…persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success…” and is relevant to many areas of life. The idea of perseverance is a kindred virtue to courage, which is definitely needed when attempting desired change. The act of persevering is part of the journey of transformation.

Every season serves a purpose. Appreciate where you are in . your journey, even if it's not where you want to be. - iFunny :)

If every season indeed serves a purpose, our positive response indicates a willingness to embrace the season while adapting to the changes. The desired outcome is persevering through the process and successfully navigating the challenges in overcoming difficulties to lead to the realization of our efforts. The progress we gain in making choices will enhance our lives, rendering the season worthwhile and the journey a success, regardless of where we are in the interim.

We learn in Scripture that if we have faith, we can move mountains.

“…I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20b (NKJV)

Perseverance appears to be the very definition of faith and awaiting the perfect timing for our efforts to come to fruition.

Here’s a passage that further defines perseverance:

“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-3 (AMP)

And this verse about encouragement and accountability:

“This is not the time to pull away and neglect meeting together, as some have formed the habit of doing, because we need each other! In fact, we should come together even more frequently, eager to encourage and urge each other onward as we anticipate that day dawning.” Hebrews 10:25 (TPT)

As we find ways to respect, serve, and join with one another, significant accomplishments come to completion. It begins with an of acceptance of our journey. Add a level of understanding regarding our need to persevere faithfully. Then, embrace accountability and encouragement in the ways that most connect to our personalities and tendencies. The result may be miraculous!

Enjoy your week, and ponder on what you need to accomplish your goals. Once done, find someone to whom you can be accountable and someone you can encourage. You never know how your efforts may assist someone else in persevering through their efforts to move mountains.

Be Well & Be Blessed!

Lucinda