ON THE MAT! (Part 6 of 6)

            Before we leave this focus on wrestling in prayer, there is one more element we need to bear in mind.

            ENDURANCE!

            There is a coach in wrestling. There is also a team. However, the competition on the mat depends most on the individual performance. Though the coach trains and encourages and the team-mates shout and cheer during the match, the wrestler is out there on the mat grappling alone with the opponent. And we are not talking “tag-team” wrestling here. The wrestler’s individual skills must be developed and conditioning must be maintained so as to have the endurance necessary to compete. Three 3 minute rounds may not seem like a long time unless you are the one out there on the mat. The wrestler must keep pushing. To relax gives the opponent the opportunity to gain control.

            In our Christian walk, there are times we find ourselves taking a stand alone (though God is with us). There are times when we have to put everything we have into a situation to remain standing. There are times we may not be able to count on the relief or aid of other human beings. How do we stand at those times? Have we developed the endurance required to do so?

            We must persevere in prayer as Paul encouraged the Thessalonian brethren to “pray without ceasing”. (I Thessalonians 5:17 ESV)

            We must also persevere in the focus and study of God’s Word in order to maintain the endurance necessary to keep pressing on to victory. As Paul noted in his letter to Christians at Rome. . .

            “(4) For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, (6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 15:4-6 ESV)

            May we remain conditioned within to stand firm for enduring to the end! Jesus’ assurance is that such will be saved! (Matthew 10:22)

            Have a great day CONDITIONED TO KEEP ON KEEPING ON!

                        Carl