Welcome to another Favor Fridays with Tony! Today is the 21st day of Black History Month, a time dedicated to reflecting on the resilience, courage, and perseverance of those who have paved the way for future generations. One of the greatest blessings we can receive is the favor of perseverance—the ability to endure hardships, remain steadfast in faith, and rise above obstacles. This divine gift has been evident throughout history, both in the Bible and in the lives of Black pioneers who refused to give up, even in the face of adversity.
The Power of Perseverance in Faith
Perseverance is a central theme in the Bible. It is the ability to press on despite trials, to trust in God’s promises, and to endure with patience. James 1:12 (The Message) reminds us:
“Anyone who meets a testing challenge head-on and sticks it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life.”
God’s favor grants us the strength to persevere through seasons of hardship, equipping us to face difficulties with courage and determination.
Biblical Figures Who Persevered
1. Joseph – From the Pit to the Palace (Genesis 37-50)
Joseph’s story is a powerful example of perseverance. Sold into slavery by his own brothers and later imprisoned under false accusations, Joseph never lost faith. Instead, he continued to serve God with integrity. In the end, his perseverance led to his elevation as a ruler in Egypt, where he saved many lives, including his family’s. His journey teaches us that God’s favor allows us to turn trials into triumphs.
2. Job – Unwavering Faith in the Face of Suffering (Job 1-42)
Job lost everything—his wealth, health, and family—yet he refused to curse God. Despite his immense suffering, he remained faithful. In the end, God restored everything Job had lost, rewarding his perseverance with greater blessings than before.
3. Paul – Pressing Forward Despite Hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-28)
Paul endured beatings, shipwrecks, imprisonment, and persecution for the sake of the Gospel. Despite these hardships, he remained committed to his mission. His famous words in Philippians 3:14 (The Message) encourage us:
“I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.”
Paul’s unwavering perseverance teaches us to remain steadfast in our faith, no matter what challenges we face.
The Favor of Perseverance in Black History
As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize that perseverance has been the foundation of progress for Black leaders, activists, and pioneers. Their stories reflect the favor of perseverance—an unshakable commitment to justice, equality, and faith despite unimaginable trials.
1. Harriet Tubman – Perseverance for Freedom
Harriet Tubman, known as the “Moses of her people,” escaped slavery and then risked her life to lead others to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Her faith in God sustained her, and she never wavered in her mission. She famously said:
“I always told God, ‘I’m going to hold steady on You, and You’ve got to see me through.’”
Her perseverance not only freed hundreds but also inspired generations to fight for justice.
2. Frederick Douglass – Perseverance in Education and Advocacy
Born into slavery, Frederick Douglass defied the odds by secretly teaching himself to read and write. His perseverance led him to escape slavery, become a leading abolitionist, and write one of the most powerful autobiographies in history. His words remind us of the power of endurance:
“Without a struggle, there can be no progress.”
3. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – Perseverance in Nonviolent Resistance
Dr. King faced death threats, imprisonment, and violence, yet he never abandoned his dream of equality. His perseverance, fueled by faith, led to the Civil Rights Movement’s greatest victories. In his “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” he wrote:
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
4. Madam C.J. Walker – Perseverance in Entrepreneurship
Born to former slaves, Madam C.J. Walker became the first self-made female millionaire in the U.S. through her haircare empire. She faced racism, gender discrimination, and financial struggles but never gave up. She once said:
“I got my start by giving myself a start.”
Her story exemplifies perseverance in business and the power of faith in personal success.
Walking in the Favor of Perseverance Today
God’s favor allows us to persevere through our own challenges. Whether facing financial hardships, health struggles, career setbacks, or personal disappointments, perseverance in faith leads to breakthroughs. Here’s how we can walk in God’s favor of perseverance:
1. Keep Your Eyes on the Goal
Hebrews 12:1 (The Message) tells us:
“Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus.”
Fixing our focus on God and His promises keeps us from losing hope.
2. Lean on God’s Strength
We don’t have to endure trials alone. Isaiah 40:31 (The Message) reassures us:
“But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, they run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind.”
God strengthens those who trust Him.
3. Surround Yourself with Encouragement
Just as Black leaders persevered together, we must uplift one another. Seek community, mentorship, and accountability partners who remind you of God’s faithfulness.
4. Speak Life Over Yourself
Words have power. Declare perseverance over your life with affirmations like:
“I am strong through Christ.”
“I will not give up because God is with me.”
“Every challenge is preparing me for greater.”
5. Take Small Steps Forward
Progress doesn’t always come in leaps—it often comes in small, faithful steps. Keep moving forward, trusting that God’s favor will guide you.
Closing Thoughts: Enduring Through Faith
As we reflect on Black History Month, let’s honor the perseverance of those who came before us and commit to walking in the favor of perseverance today. Their struggles paved the way for our opportunities, and just as God strengthened them, He will strengthen us.
No matter what trials you face, remember that perseverance is a divine favor—a gift from God that empowers us to overcome, to rise, and to inspire others. Keep pushing forward, trusting that God’s favor will carry you through.
Want to see how perseverance and faith work together in action? Check out my superhero novel series, S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™. It’s a story about characters discovering their God-given purpose and overcoming obstacles through faith. Visit www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop to get your autographed copy and start your journey today!
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