By Drake Hunter | Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice
Ever found yourself halfway up a mountain thinking, Why did I do this? Your legs burn, your lungs gasp, and your motivation runs dry. The summit seems distant, and the parking lot below is tempting. This is perseverance—when quitting looks easy, the reward for pressing on is greater. “But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13 (ESV)
Many compare salvation to climbing God’s mountain. Jesus said, “Follow Me” before ascending the Sermon on the Mount. Salvation is a gift, freely given, not earned. But the journey of faith—becoming more like Christ—is an actual climb. Perseverance is faith in motion, a steady pace, and a determination to keep going. Let’s see how perseverance, the fifth panel of the helmet of salvation, aligns with salvation’s key facets as we climb.
First, the objective and subjective aspects of salvation. Justification, the starting point. Justification is lacing up your boots and stepping onto the trail. God declares, “You are mine. You are forgiven.” But many stop here—taking a group selfie by the trailhead instead of climbing. Key point! Justification sets you on the path, but perseverance moves you forward. Adoption, belonging to the climbing team. Adoption means you’re not just on the mountain—you belong. You’re part of a team, a community that supports and encourages you. God gives you a guide (the Holy Spirit), a team (the church), and a climbing manual (the Bible). But the path is still hard. Doubts, struggles, and storms will come. Key point! Adoption is secure, but perseverance helps you trust God, keep climbing, and lean on your team—regeneration, the energy of a new climber. Regeneration is like that first breath of fresh mountain air—exciting and invigorating! But new hikers often sprint ahead, only to burn out quickly. The Christian life isn’t about a fast start; it’s about endurance. Key point! Perseverance sustains you when the initial excitement fades, the honeymoon only lasts for so long.
Next is the continuation of salvation, sanctification, and, of course, perseverance. The hardest part of the climb is sanctification, which is the long, grueling ascent. The trail steepens, the sun beats down, and struggles arise. You stumble over sins, wrestle with doubts, and face obstacles that tempt you to quit. There are no shortcuts. Key point! Sanctification is where perseverance proves its worth—keep moving forward. Perseverance, on the other hand, is the mark of true climbers. This is where casual hikers and real climbers are revealed. Some start strong but turn back when hardships hit. Others press on, not because it’s easy but because they believe the summit is worth it. Jesus never promised an easy path, but He did promise His presence. Main Point of this discussion! Genuine faith isn’t about how you start but your commitment to continue to the finish line (Philippians 3:14).
Finally, we have the completion of salvation, glorification, which I speak towards next week. The Summit Awaits! Glorification is when we reach the top—standing in God’s presence, knowing the climb was worth it—no more struggles, exhaustion, or setbacks—only the breathtaking view of Christ. But you must complete the climb to see the summit. Key point! Glorification is not just a distant dream, it’s a reality that awaits us, a promise that keeps us going. It’s assured, but perseverance carries us there.
So, keep climbing. Faith isn’t about speed or perfection—it’s about taking the next step and feeling stuck. Take one more step. Feeling discouraged? Rely on your Guide and team. Feeling drained? Fix your eyes on the summit. You were made for this climb. Trust me—the view from the top is worth it. Just keep climbing! Let this be your mantra, motivation, your determination to keep moving forward.
Pastor Drake
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Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.