We tell people who are going through hard times “hang in there,” or “keep your chin up.” To persevere means to “persist in something,” in spite of persecution, opposition, or discouragement.[1]
There is a unique verb in the New Testament that is a low frequency word – prosketereo. The meaning of this word is to devote by means of perseverance. It is used eight (8) times. Here are the references[2] …..
Acts 1:4 – All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus and his brothers…..
Acts 2:42 – And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers….
Acts 2:46 – And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts….
Acts 6:4But we will devote ourselves to prayer and ministry of the word.
Acts 8:13 – Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and miracles performed, he was amazed.
Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer….
Romans 13:6 – For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God attending to this very thing….
Colossians 4:2 – Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving…
It is interesting to me that five (5) of the eight (8) references are directly connected to prayer. I invite you today to join me in three postures of prayer as we face yet another Covid-19 day.
- RAISED HANDS – Give Praise
- Arms stretched forward with palms turned up – RECEIVE allow your blessing to flow through your fingers to bless others
- Arms stretched out to your side with palms turned up – SURRENDER – Here am I – send me!
Shepherds Advantage provides Servant Leadership that helps people close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Shepherds Advantage closes that gap by providing Leadership Development, Key Note Speaking, and Executive Coaching.
[1] Carpenter, E. E., & Comfort, P. W. (2000). In Holman treasury of key Bible words: 200 Greek and 200 Hebrew words defined and explained (p. 361). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
[2] These scripture references are from the ESV Translation according to Logos Bible Software as used in a word study mode.
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