Article September 18, 1989 Issue

How persistent can we be?

We don't have to struggle for true persistence—it's a natural part of spiritual growth.

Edmonde L. St. John

A Large oak tree on our front lawn daily reminds me that persistence is a natural concomitant of growth. All winter long most of the leaves on an oak tree, though withered, stay attached. Through strong wind, freezing snow, or bitter cold, they cling to the branches. The botanist calls them persistent leaves, as opposed to those that drop off in the fall. When spring comes, new growth actually appears to "push" the withered leaves off. Then, though unnoticeable at first, green leaves gradually unfold until the tree is in full leaf, larger in size than the previous year.

To persist does mean to persevere, but not impulsively or irregularly. Holding on steadily, sometimes even though with "trembling" (as do the leaves), is the kind of persistence implicit in spiritual growth.

The Christian disciple takes the demand for persistence beyond being merely a mental exercise. He understands that to "pray without ceasing"^{I Thess. 5:17.} brings spiritual growth, and this kind of persistence has a direct impact on his everyday experience. It equips him with more confidence in facing daily challenges, and it results in healing. Mrs. Eddy—a faithful disciple of Christ—writes from her own experience when she says, "Success in life depends upon persistent effort, upon the improvement of moments more than upon any other one thing."^{Miscellaneous Writings, p. 230.}