Forged in Fire
Grit, Growth, and God’s Plan
Life is harder than ever before. The pressures of leadership, the demands of the marketplace, and the ever-present distractions of social media, inflation, and global uncertainties can make even the strongest leaders feel like giving up. If you’ve ever felt like quitting, you’re not alone. More ministers resign on Monday than any other day of the week, simply because they come off the highs of the weekend only to face unmet expectations and new challenges.
But here’s the truth: success isn’t determined by talent, intelligence, or personality. It’s determined by grit. Angela Duckworth, in her book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, shares that the key factor distinguishing high achievers from non-achievers is grit—the determination to keep going despite adversity.
What Is Grit?
Grit is the ability to face adversity and adapt. It means refusing to quit, staying steadfast, and continuing to move forward no matter the obstacles. Grit is overcoming adversity and keeping moving forward. Grit is forged in the furnace of fire. Years ago, I asked my mentor, Dr. Lester Sumrall, the secret to success in ministry and business. He simply said, “Don’t quit.” That’s it. Just keep showing up, giving your best, and moving forward.
Biblical Grit: The Foundation of Endurance
The Bible may not use the word “grit,” but it speaks of steadfastness, endurance, and courage.
1 Corinthians 15:57-58 reminds us:
“Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.”
People with grit see the end from the beginning. They know that challenges are temporary and that perseverance leads to victory.
Hebrews 10:36 reinforces this:
“For you have need of patience (perseverance), that after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise.”
Great dreams take time. If your vision is from God, it won’t come easily or quickly. That’s why grit is necessary to fulfill your purpose.
7 Big Ideas on Grit
Let Pressure Push You Forward – Don’t let pressure break you; let it fuel your progress.
Use Adversity to Advance – Like Michael Jordan, take every doubt and setback as motivation to move forward.
Learn from Every Failure – The road to success is paved with failures, and each one teaches a lesson.
See Setbacks as Setups – Perspective matters. What seems like a setback may be a divine setup for your next step.
Grit Is Forged in the Fire – The hardships you endure shape your character and prepare you for greater challenges.
Behind Every Problem Is a Promotion – Just like David and Goliath, every big problem is an opportunity for a breakthrough.
See the End from the Beginning – Keep your eyes on the prize, knowing that God’s promises stand firm.
Keep Building Your Grit
Without grit, you can’t fulfill the will of God. Faith and perseverance are essential to reaching your full potential. When I started Church on the Rock 40 years ago, all I had was a word from God. That word sustained me through every hardship and helped me build a ministry that continues to impact lives.
Leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals—you need grit to thrive in today’s world. Keep showing up. Keep pressing forward. Keep believing. Your breakthrough is ahead.
If this message added value to your life, share it with others. Let’s keep building grit together!