The sixth character trait of Jesus which is imperative for us to be a strong and effective spiritual leader is perseverance. The Bible has many passages about perseverance and tribulations/trials in life, as well as many examples of God’s men who demonstrated this important trait in their lives, families and God’s work. The Christian life and spiritual leadership are a marathon and not a sprint. There is never a straight line between us and our goals. There are always pitfalls, trials and tribulations. That is life and we learn how to live life and trust God through them. We are to use them to learn and grow and to become mature in Christ.

Our attitude will determine whether we persevere to use trials as “stumbling blocks” or “stepping stones” to where God wants to take us. Remember that a “smooth sea never made a skillful sailor.” Perseverance is the leader’s determination to keep on going when the going gets tough and to not give up. It is the courage to stay the course and to know that God is in control even when it may not make sense to us. Jesus is our model and example of perseverance as He persevered all the way to death on the cross for us. Perseverance is the one character trait which confirms the strength of character of a man and has a reward at the end. James 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life God has promised to those who love him.” Those whom a man leads are looking to see how he will handle issues when the going gets tough. Will he give up or will he lead through the storm and show that trust in God and His purposes will guide the day? This question will have to be answered time and again over a lifetime.