Have you ever heard the term “sticktoitiveness?” It means “the quality that allows someone to continue trying to do something even though it is difficult or unpleasant.”
I think this was what James referred to when he talked about being “steadfast.” Steadfast means “resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering.
James encourages us to have an enduring faith, to be steadfast.
Have you ever watched the young military men that guard the tomb of the unknown soldier? These highly disciplined men endure all kinds of weather conditions and climate conditions. Rain, snow, sleet, high wind, heat, cold, etc. No matter the circumstances they dutifully and unwaveringly guard the tomb. No matter the distractions, they maintain their focus and objectives.
Christian faith is a duty also. God calls us to have a high standard of “sticktoitiveness” as we face the circumstances of life. James encourages us to not just endure the trials and challenges we face but to actually take joy in facing our obstacles.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4
It seems strange to find joy in trials. James encourages us to focus on the positive changes that such trials can bring. It’s hard to “stick with it” when we are enduring difficult circumstances. These trials, however, provide an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to go to work deep within us, transforming us to be more like Christ.
Faith is believing in the unseen. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ”Hebrews 11:1 Faith means we put our complete trust or confidence in someone or something. It’s one thing to proclaim our faith in God when life is going smoothly. It builds a deeper level of faith, however, when we can’t see Him at work and we continue to believe and trust in Him.
We are encouraged to focus on the eternal benefits and rewards.
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12
Many people hear the Word of God each day. Those words don’t penetrate our hearts, however, if we don’t put the principles into action.
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
James 1:22
As Christians, we are going to face trials. Fortunately, we do not have to face these trials alone. We have the support of other Christians and we have God’s Holy Spirit to teach us and strengthen us as we persevere. Through the trials of life, we too can learn to rely as James did on the promises of God and the joy and rewards that await us in eternity.