The extraordinary talents of stars, professionals sports competitors, musicians, computer geniuses, speakers etc, all have one thing in common. They have worked persistently and consistently at their crafts or professions until they have reached what may be called performance perfection.

Many of these outstanding people execute so flawlessly and consistently that they make those painstakingly acquired talents and skills seem easy. Yet, their is almost a disdain among the masses to emulate these efforts.

Persistence Is A Mark of Character

In Malcolm Gladwell's book, "Outliers, The Story of Success" he records the study and work habits of Bill Gates, the Beatles and others who rose to "stardom" in their professions. One characteristic he noted was the ten thousand hour rule. Almost all those who had achieved greatness had put in a minimum of ten thousand hours of study or practice or both.

Some accomplished this in shorter periods, for example, the Beatles who played 8 hours a night straight over the span of a couple of years. This allowed them to become very creative, skilled and polished as performers. The net effect blossomed into worldwide success during the 60's, with a legacy continuing until this day.

While others do just enough to get by or scratch out a living, dedicated individuals work tirelessly at a dream or aim they love. To stay with a task or effort until one masters it is a sign of character.

Persistence and Perseverance Builds Character

Many obstacles are encountered when one sets their sights on a huge goal. There are unknowns, unforeseen events, and challenges that are beyond one's control. However, the person with perseverance finds a way around, through, over or under them.

Paul wrote to those experiencing the need to endure to the end saying, "And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character hope. (Rom. 5:4) Hope does not disappoint.

In other words, while the enormity of the task appears insurmountable and frightens away the timid, perseverance even when one cannot see the end of that desired or aimed for, leads to hope. Hope results in the acquiring "by whatever means is necessary" the inspiration to succeed.

Solomon wrote, "if you faint in the day of adversity, your faith is small." (Prov. 24:10)

Perseverance An Invitation to Stand Before Kings

How many times have we seen entertainers, top athletes, speakers, scientists, medical doctors, etc. invited as honor guests of royalty? When one commits to excellence, devoting oneself to the task, the chances are great that such talents and efforts will be recognized.

It's important also to note that recognition is the by product, not the goal. Those who reverse the order often find themselves ill-prepared for the task and miserably fail the grade. It is those who apply and prepare themselves for excellence who become world class in their respective fields.

Solomon wrote: "Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men." (Prov. 22:29)

It is our God given responsibility to achieve excellence in what we do or choose to become. He made us. He knows what's in us. It's our duty to discover it and make it conform to that of which he knows we're capable.