The Greek text of Matthew’s gospel states a continual command: “Keep on continually seeking.” The dominating thought is determination, which I define as “deciding to hang tough, regardless.”
All of this urges us to keep in mind the difference between natural sight and supernatural vision. When we look at life with vision, we perceive events and circumstances with God’s thoughts. And because His thoughts are higher and more profound than everyday horizontal thinking, they have a way of softening the blows of calamity and giving us hope through tragedy and loss. They also enable us to handle times of popularity and prosperity with wisdom.
I’ll be frank with you. I know of no more valuable technique in the pursuit of successful living than sheer, dogged determination. Nothing works in ministry better than persistence—persistence in godliness, determination to stay diligent in study, perseverance in the priorities of ministry, and commitment in working with people.
I often remind myself of those familiar words in 2 Timothy 4:2, “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.” That’s a nice way of saying, “Hang tough! Do it when it comes naturally and when it is hard to come by. Do it when you’re up; do it when you’re down. Do it when you feel like it; do it (more often) when you don’t feel like it. Do it when it’s hot; do it when it’s cold. Keep on doing it. Don’t give up.” That is persistence and determination in seeking the kingdom of God. That is hanging tough with dogged discipline.
Take it from one who has been in the ministry for almost fifty years. In times when you get whipped, or even when you win, the secret is staying at it.
—Chuck
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