GRIT: PASSIONATE PERSEVERANCE

Written by John Francis

Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

The relational passion flowing from the heart of His Father coupled with a relational desire to bring us into a dynamic relationship with them both, moved Jesus beyond the temporary moment of death producing emotions and circumstances.  He persevered for the sake of relationships.   

Angela Duckworth’s book Grit releases the seeds of inspiration, unlocking more and more gritty potential within each one of us.In this week’s blog I want to highlight the connection between passion and perseverance that captivated me as I read her book.

The ability to push through obstacles and opposition, and move on to fruitful productivity and outcomes, comes from the passion(s) within us. Ponder the two statements from Duckworth’s book below:

• “It was this combination of passion and perseverance that made high achievers special. In a word, they had grit.” (pg. 8)

• “I’ve asked Chia what she makes of her own musical accomplishments. ‘Well, I guess I may have some talent,’ Chia said. "But I think, more than that, I loved music so much I practiced four to six hours a day all throughout childhood’”. (pg. 8)

Ask yourself, 

• What is the source of the passions within you?

• What are you so passionate about that causes you to push through to greater outcomes?

• What do you find yourself practicing? Chia practiced her love of music six hours a day. It was her passionate perseverance.

Enjoy celebrating your passion(s) and you will persevere, being a person of GRIT!!

References taken from Duckworth, Angela. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. New York: Scribner, 2016. Kindle Edition.