Read: Romans 5:1-5
It is interesting to watch snails in our courtyard. It is a little creature with a small shell, a slimy tummy, and tiny eyes that turn like periscopes. What really seems unusual is how slowly a snail travels. How slow does a snail go? A study clocked a snail at 0.01220 kilometres per hour, or 40 feet in one hour. This would have led to the phrase ‘moving at a snail’s pace’ to mean ‘slow.’
Even though a snail moves at a sluggish pace, one virtue it possesses is perseverance. The great 19th century preacher Charles Spurgeon humorously said, “By perseverance the snail reached the ark.” According to Paul the apostle, perseverance is a key component in character development. He explained that “tribulation produces perseverance” (Rom. 5:3). And the subsequent development is character and hope (Rom. 5:4). The original Greek word translated “perseverance” means “steadfastness, constancy, and endurance.” It was used of believers who endured in their walk of faith despite many painful trials.
Have setbacks in life slowed you down to a snail’s pace? Be encouraged. God does not demand a fast finish. But He expects persevering progress. Remember that great achievement requires great perseverance.
