Determination is an excellent trait that helps us navigate the ups and downs of life. It keeps us on track and helps us reach goals and the destination God has in store for us, allowing all to gain God's potential individually and collectively. As Christians, we know we must keep striving even when things get tough, and we always need to keep our eyes fixed on the ultimate prize: Eternal Life with God and all His exceptional children, now and always. So, what exactly is determination, and how can we cultivate it in our everyday lives where Christian Character Counts?
Determination is about having a spirit of resolve and moving forward and upward, no matter what. We must obtain our ultimate objective of bearing God's fruit — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control — to hit our goal of feeding goodness to a hurting and hungry world (Galatians 5:22-23). This fruit is essential for serving others effectively and finding satisfaction in life through Jesus' unique ways. Jesus' teaching of "Deny Yourself" cultivates determination and reminds us that placing others before ourselves is crucial to Christian living (Luke 9:23-25). By developing determination, you will avoid significant difficulties in your faith and life. Determination is critical to achieving Life's goals, requiring an unyielding desire to succeed in God's way.
Setting attainable goals and remaining humble is critical to fostering determination. When faced with challenges, view them as opportunities to gain wisdom and grow by following the value-set of God. In addition, daily practice Christian disciplines like meditation, fasting, prayer, and studying to develop determination. Also, get into a Bible-believing church that knows the actual Christian reality and understands the honest Grace and truth of Jesus. It should be where you can dwell in God's wisdom and reality, powered by His ultimate love and divine wisdom, no matter what you're going through (John 3:16-21).
The absence of determination can often lead to feeling stagnant or trapped in life, which can be extremely disheartening and depressing. When motivation dwindles, it's not uncommon for depression to set in. However, knowing and developing determination will help you overcome obstacles to achieve and deliver true "Goodness" through Christ, always! Remember, Jesus taught us to "Deny Yourself!" to be like him – and is the key to unlocking God's full potential in your determination and truth.
Choosing to deny oneself to develop determination is a powerful way to overcome the body's persistent demands and align oneself with God's principles. This path guarantees you'll live a better life in the long run, where you can avoid giving into self-gratification or sin. As the Bible states, "And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires" (Galatians 5:24, ESV). By renouncing oneself as the center of existence and recognizing Jesus Christ as the new and true center, Christians can experience a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment where Christian Character Counts!
With heart and determination,