The dictionary definition of perseverance is: persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. Basically perseverance means just keep going!
The last three of the Five Tenets of Taekwondo are perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. Notice the order . . . perseverance and self-control are required for indomitable spirit.
Of course, the Bible has something to say about these traits as well.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 1:5-8
Notice that this list is like stepping stones across a river; each trait moves us forward. For the martial artist, self-control and perseverance lead to indomitable spirit. For the follower of Christ, these same qualities lead to godliness, to mutual affection, and finally, to love. In other words, each step brings us closer to being like Christ.
If we want to be effective and productive in all aspects of our lives, cultivating self-control, perseverance, and indomitable spirit is essential. What can you do over the next week to grow in these areas?
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