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(James 1:2) “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
This series is about how GOD is believed to communicate with us all. This next part is through (15) PERSEVERANCE (endurance)—continuing faith through trials so growth becomes lasting.
Perseverance is deciding to stick with GOD even (especially) when life gets real — choosing faith over quitting in the middle of pain, delay, or confusion until real growth shows up.
TESTIMONY: It soon became clear that a lady manager in our department openly disliked me. She didn’t hide it — she spent as much time as she could making my workdays difficult. I prayed. I sulked. I ground my teeth. I lived with a constant sting of criticism and small jabs until one particularly awful morning left me raw and shaken.
Back at my desk, I opened my lunchbox and ate in a fog of frustration, seriously wondering whether I should resign — though not before I had told her how I felt! I forced myself to breathe more slowly, unclench my fists, and quiet the sharpness in my face. From the corner of my eye, I saw her glance at my food and say, “Wow, a tangerine! I love tangerines.” I ignored her. My first thought was petty: If GOD Himself asked me to give her half, I’d say no.
Then, oddly and clearly, I felt the Lord speak: "Don't give her half. Get up and give her the whole fruit."
I fought it. I wrestled with GOD like Jacob. Finally, with my hands shaking, I carried the tangerine across the room and set it on her desk. I didn’t wait to see her reaction; I went instead to the restroom to pull myself together. When I returned, I noticed she was dabbing her eyes with a tissue — she had been crying.
I asked, awkwardly, if she was okay and whether I could help. She didn’t look up at first. Then, between sobs, she said, “I’ve done everything I can to get rid of you, and the more I hurt you, the nicer you are… Why?” I didn’t have a ready answer, but I found myself telling her about the Lord — how He had asked me to forgive her and show kindness to her even when it was undeserved.
She listened, astonished. As she opened up, I learned she'd once known GOD herself but had walked away many years before. That simple act — giving away a tangerine (that I didn’t want to share) — became a small bridge. It opened a conversation, softened a heart, and reminded me that obedience to GOD’s gentle nudges can stretch far beyond the moment. (Warren)
If you’re reading this and struggling with someone who hurts you, consider the power of small, obedient acts. They don’t erase the pain, but they can open the door to healing, grace, and unexpected restoration.
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Let’s pray, “Heavenly Father, help me to live James 1:2: to consider it pure joy when I face trials. Give me steadiness of heart, patience in the struggle, and eyes to see your refining purpose in every difficulty. When my spirit is discouraged, remind me that you are working perseverance in me and shaping my character for your glory. Fill me with your peace, strengthen my faith, and teach me to trust you through every challenge.” Amen!
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