Enduring

We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.”4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. (Romans 15)
Endurance.  We often think of it when it comes to runners in marathons and other kind of athletic races, but fail to keep it in mind when it comes to relationships.  We give up too easily - whether it be at work, at home, or in the Body of Christ. We give up on one another, and in a sense, on ourselves. We don't think we can do it anymore, and we are right. We cannot. We need the God of Endurance and Encouragement to graciously give us His endurance. We need to run into His embracing arms, and trust in Him. He is able. We are not.