Title
The Fruit of Gentle Persistence
Scripture
By long forbearance a ruler is persuaded, and a gentle tongue breaks a bone.
(Proverbs 25:15)
Devotional
Persuasion takes patience, and gentle words greatly influence. It is just that simple. It is just that true. Lives are not changed through impatience nor ideas promoted through coercion. We so often quit after only one attempt. If rejection is the first result, we usually make it the final result. We quit so easily. Most people only ask once, and once is not enough. That is why there are four gospels. That is why Jesus said for us to persistently ask, seek and knock. Tenacity alone will not succeed. Irritating persistence is just that, irritating. Persistence must be accompanied by gentleness. Our words are to be gracious, filled with integrity and concern for the other. If you consistently attempt to persuade people for their well being, they will eventually see the picture and understand that you have their best interest in mind. Therefore, be kindly persistent.
Text For The Day
Proverbs 25:15: By long forbearance a ruler is persuaded, and a gentle tongue breaks a bone.
Thought For The Day
“I cannot tell you why a prayer that has been prayed for ten years is answered on the 1,000th request when God has met the first 999 with silence.” Unknown
Questions To Ponder
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If God knows what we need before we ask (Matthew 6:8), why would He want us to keep asking (Luke 11:8)?
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How do we go about being persistent and gentle at the same time?
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Who do you need to persuade?
Evening Study Guide
Defining: “Persistence”: Keep on keeping on, endurance, patience, keeping your eyes on the mark and not quitting before you achieve your goal.
Referencing: “…Because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs,” Luke 11:5-10.
Applying: Keep seeking, keep knocking, and keep asking until you receive what God wants.