July 11, 2015 Serena Williams won the Wimbledon Women’s Tennis Championship, her latest of 21 Grand Slam victories which places her second overall in the open era of tennis. Her longevity, continued dominance, and record accomplishments are astonishing considering she entered the professional ranks at age 14 in 1995 and turns 34 in September. Twenty years of hard work, intense focus, and dogged perseverance puts her in a class by herself.
Christians are also called to nothing less.
Hard work – “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” Colossians 3:23
Intense focus – “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” Hebrews 12:1
Daily perseverance – “. . . and you have perseverance and have endured for My name’s sake, and have not grown weary.” Revelation 2:3
I also admire how Serena gave glory to Jehovah God for her victory during her court side interview following the match. You and I should do likewise in our daily lives. Even though our goal is probably not multiple tennis victories, Christians can learn victorious living by training in prayer, Bible study, and worship, focusing on that which holds eternal value, and giving glory to the only One worthy of worship and praise. After all our journey lasts far longer than 20 years; we’re preparing for eternity.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Ephesians 6:10 and “Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called . . .” 1Timothy 6:12a
Blessings of godly persistence! Prayer requests?
“Father God, Let us live victorious Christian lives and fight the good fight no matter the obstacles or consequences. Thank you, Amen.”
Fighting and Persevering Only Because of God, PJ
COPYRIGHT ©2015 PJ Gover http://www.PJGover.com (blog) http://www.citygirlgoincountry.wordpress.com http://4homestore.com/devotionalbook.html (PJ’s devotional book)
Filed under: Christian Tagged: Jehovah God, perseverance, Serena Williams, victoriously living, Wimbledon Womens Championship
