“Going through trials is what builds endurance, perseverance, and strength of character.”
-Abe Cruz, Forever Faith
A few years ago, when I first started physical therapy, my therapist (PT) asked what my goals were. I thought about which part of my body I wanted to improve on and decided I would like to sit up on my own, something I hadn’t been able to do in over ten years.
One day my PT challenged me to sit up on the edge of my bed. I tried my best, but it was impossible for me to control my torso. Yikes! I was like a cooked spaghetti noodle! Every attempt I put forth I always seemed to fail. I felt helpless and frustrated.
After my therapy session finished, the PT shared her concerns. She didn’t think that I could sit up on my own due to how weak I was.
Discouraged, I prayed and asked God to help me to get stronger. I refused to give up. Just because someone doesn’t think I have the strength to improve doesn’t mean I won’t succeed.
I was determined to strengthen my torso. I wanted to have independence to sit up on my own. At first, I was only able to support myself for around twenty seconds. I did not work out every day but then when I started to exercise daily, I physically got stronger. Each time I practiced, I slowly improved until I could sit up for a full minute! Over time, I strengthened, and I could sit up for sixteen minutes. Wow, I thought. I did it!
While I still have more goals with physical therapy, I have made amazing progress.
No matter the situation, anything is possible as long as we persevere through the trials. When we face obstacles in life, perseverance emerges and strengthens our faith!
How do you persevere when life is challenging?
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4
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