…Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us looking to Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith… Hebrews 12:1-2

Our pastor, Shawn Franco, has stated, “Miracles don’t mature us,” yet we still ask our loving, omnipotent God for miracles knowing nothing is impossible with Him. However, we recognize that often instead of removing the obstacle God brings about His purposes by enabling us to persevere in the midst of unanswered prayers and challenging circumstances. While miracles build our faith in a God who can do anything, maturity comes slowly decision by decision to trust God night after dark night.

In Zimbabwe, “SHINGA” means to persevere through a difficulty with bravery and resiliency. The author of Hebrews describes it like this, “For you have need of endurance so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised…We are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.”  Endurance comes as we make it our aim to please God in spite of this messy life. Miracles may not mature us but messes do.