
RESISTANCE VERSUS PERSISTENCE
Tuesday, SEPTEMBER 21, 2025
The Unstoppable Power of a Relentless Spirit
Author: Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche
Introduction
In the journey toward destiny, we inevitably encounter opposition. These obstacles, whether they come in the form of adversity, failure, or criticism, can feel like insurmountable walls. They are the resistance we face on the path to success. Many people stop at this point, accepting defeat as their final lot. However, the Bible and countless real-life stories teach us a different lesson: that resistance will always give way to persistence. This message, authored by Dr. Paul Enenche, explores the powerful truth that a determined, unyielding spirit is the key to overcoming every obstacle and claiming victory.
The biblical counsel is clear: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). To walk circumspectly means to be deliberate, careful, and intentional in our steps. It means we must be wise enough to know that opposition is guaranteed, and our response must be one of unwavering persistence.
The Jerry Falwell Story: A Testament to Persistence
The life of Jerry Falwell, the founder of Liberty University, serves as a powerful modern-day example of this principle. When he began his ministry, he pastored a small group of just five people. For five long years, that number remained stagnant. In a world that measures success by immediate results, many would have given up. But Falwell refused to quit. Instead of blaming circumstances or a lack of interest, he embraced radical persistence.
Every single day for five years, he would go out and knock on one hundred doors, inviting people to his church. He faced rejection, closed doors, and indifference, but he did not falter. His relentless effort eventually broke the spiritual and physical resistance he faced. The church experienced a massive explosion in growth, and his influence expanded far beyond his local community. He went on to found Liberty University, a lasting legacy that stands strong today, all because of his persistence.
This story confirms the profound truth: opposition is not a sign that you should give up; it’s a sign that you are on the right path. Your persistence is the force that will eventually wear down and collapse the resistance.
Taking Responsibility: The Antidote to Blame
One of the greatest enemies of persistence is the blame game. The moment we start looking for someone or something to blame for our problems, we give away our power to change our circumstances. Dr. Enenche points out that some people are specialists in blaming others—witches, family members, or the government—for their misfortunes. This is a trap that keeps people bound in a cycle of failure.
The Bible provides a powerful example of this in the story of Adam and Eve.
Genesis 3:11-12 (NKJV Summary): After eating the forbidden fruit, God asked Adam, “Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?” Instead of accepting responsibility, Adam immediately shifted the blame. He replied, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.” Adam’s response wasn’t just a simple excuse; it was an indictment of God Himself, saying, “The problem is not me, it’s the woman You gave me.” This refusal to own his mistake was the beginning of his and humanity’s downfall.
This story teaches us that until we refuse to play the blame game, we can never truly succeed. Success in life begins with taking radical responsibility for your choices and your circumstances. Instead of saying, “My past has made me this way,” you must declare, “I am responsible for my future, regardless of my past.”
Practical Steps to Cultivating Persistence
Persistence is not a feeling; it is a discipline. It is a choice we make every day to keep going, even when we don’t feel like it. Here are some practical steps to cultivate this unstoppable force:
- Refuse to Give Up: No matter what happens around you, make a firm decision in your heart that quitting is not an option. This is a fundamental mindset shift. Remind yourself that every great success story is a story of overcoming great resistance.
- Embrace a Problem-Solving Mindset: Instead of complaining about opposition, approach it as a problem to be solved. Ask yourself, “What can I do? What is the alternative?” This mindset will keep you from getting stuck in frustration and will propel you toward finding solutions.
- Take Prayerful Action: Persistence is not just about raw effort; it is about faith-filled action. As the assignment suggests, “Prayerfully take steps that will collapse your resistance.” It’s about combining diligent work with spiritual warfare, trusting that the grace of God will empower your efforts.
The prophetic declaration, “As you proceed in persistence, every form of resistance gives way for you now in Jesus Name,” is a powerful reminder that our efforts are not in vain. They are backed by divine power. The same Holy Spirit that empowered Jerry Falwell and countless others is ready to work through you.
Conclusion
In a world that often celebrates instant gratification, the principle of persistence remains a timeless key to lasting success. The path to destiny is rarely smooth or easy. There will always be resistance. But the good news is that this resistance is no match for a persistent, faith-filled spirit. By refusing the blame game and taking radical responsibility for your life, you can unlock a power that will cause every obstacle to crumble before you. Remember the thought for the day: “Resistance will always give way for persistence.”
PRAYER
Lord, I receive the grace to break forth despite resistance. Make a way for me where there is no way, Lord, in Jesus’ Name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Amos 5-7
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