For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. - Romans 15:4

We have had to “endure” much in 2020. Webster defines endurance as “the ability to withstand hardship or adversity.” Endurance is not easy. It requires fortitude. Christian fortitude, according to William Barclay, is an “attitude of the heart to life. It is hupomone. It is the triumphant adequacy which can cope with life.”

As Christians, we have the scriptures that give us stories of endurance. They tell us of people who endured with fortitude. Endurance and fortitude though, are never enough. They must be partnered with hope. Christian hope is not rose colored glasses hope. It is hope based on life experience, endurance, and fortitude, and yet still believes in the power of God.

This Advent season let us continue to go forth with endurance and fortitude. My friends, Jesus is coming. He is coming so that we can live in the hope of the power of our God.

Heavenly Father, give us strength to endure and courage to keep going. We pray for a heart of belief that sees your power and realizes there is hope. Amen.