Perseverance — the steadfast effort to follow God’s commands and to do His work. The New Testament makes it clear that faith alone can save. But it makes it equally clear that perseverance in doing good works is the greatest indication that an individual’s faith is genuine (James 2:14-26). In deed, perseverance springs from a faithful trust that God has been steadfast toward His people. Through persevering in God’s work, the Christian proves his deep appreciation for God’s saving grace (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).

As a result of perseverance, the Christian can expect not only to enhance the strength of the church, but also to build up the strength of his own character (Romans 5:3-4). In short, he can expect to become closer to God. He learns that he can persevere primarily because God is intimately related to him (Romans 8:25-27) and especially because he has the assurance of a final reward in heaven (1 John 5:13).

From Illustrated Dictionary of The Bible by Herbert Lockyer, SR., Editor with F.F. Bruce and R.K. Harrison

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