We’re continuing our series on The Virtuous Life of a Christ-Centered Wife. Today is part two in the discussion on the virtue of diligence. Find the table of contents at the end of this post.

The topic of diligence brings up the idea of hard work. And yeah, much of life can be hard work, and truly some things should be difficult, since we grow from experience and mature through each trial we face.

That’s why diligence is a virtue, because through it we develop character.

How strong would we be if life was a downhill ride? We wouldn’t be as mature as we are nor would we be as compassionate. I doubt that we’d value the things that we have as much as do when we work for them.

Life’s tough, and let’s face it, an uphill battle is never pleasant.

But here’s the thing, anyone who’s ever reached the top will tell you that the view is incomparable. And they’ll encourage you to keep on keeping on when the going gets tough.

There’s beauty to be found in the life of a persistent and diligent wife. And of course the same goes for the men, if any of you are reading.

How beautiful is it? Here are a few testimonies that give us a glimpse?

Nikki writes, “My husband and I have walked through so many of life’s ups and down together. When I am down he lifts me up and when he is down I lift him up... God brought us together 33 years ago and I will never stop thanking Him for that day.”

Susan says, “When Gods’ hand is in it … there is no stopping you from this kind of love. Not always easy but always worth the energy you put into it! Never take love for granted for tomorrow is not promised. Show your loved ones how much they mean to you so you will have no regrets. Don’t let it be too late to show/tell them.”

Anna writes, “We are coming up on 63 years married. I have to say it gets deeper.”

Maria says, “I thank my parents for their beautiful example to me and my hubby. They’re still holding hands and loving on each other at almost 50 years! I don’t take a single day with my hubby for granted

“Till the day my dad died, my parents held hands while sleeping. He died holding my mom’s hand.” – David

Rebecca writes, “I watched my grandfather release his last breath, after nearly 65 years of marriage, trying to kiss my grandmother. His lips were stuck in a pucker. A beautiful and vivid image of lasting and true love.

Rayna says, “My parents have been married 37 years–since age 19. Still in love, still slow dance in the kitchen and call each other by their lovey nicknames.”

Della says, “My husband and I met at 15 and 17 in high school….Nov 1st we will celebrate our 38th Anniversary! God has brought us to the place of “perfection” in loving each other no matter what! We’ve never been better!”

And this one’s my favorite:

“Having someone that loves you so stubbornly with the love of Jesus’ is the greatest blessing.” Annie Hendricks

If you’re in a bad place, I’m not telling you this to discourage you or remind you of what you don’t have. My hope is to encourage you to hold on with a fierce grip. We all have bad days. Some of these couples might have had bad weeks or bad years–including myself–but persistence pays off.

Regardless of where you are in your marriage you have the ability to love him so stubbornly that Christ can’t be denied.

If you’re facing an uphill battle, if you’re going through trials, if you’ve hit a rough patch in your marriage get a fierce grip on his heart and refuse to let go.

Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. – 1 Peter 1:6-7

The schedule for this series
Week 1: Introduction
Week 2 – Purity Pt. 1
Week 2 – Purity Pt. 2
Week 3 – Self Control Pt. 1
Week 3 – Self Control Pt. 2
Week 4 – Love Pt. 1
Week 4 – Love Pt. 2
Week 5 – Diligence Pt. 1
Week 5 – Diligence Pt. 2

You are loved by an almighty God,

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