Do You Have Grit in the Gospel? – 1 Corinthians 14–16

Come, Follow Me: New Testament 2023 (September 4–10)

Angela Duckworth, a psychologist and writer of the book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, examined the difference between cadets in West Point who completed their training and those who dropped out. From her findings she developed the concept of grit. 

Grit is defined as having “passion and perseverance for long-term goals” (Duckworth). Grit predicts whether a person will accomplish a challenging goal, regardless of talent or IQ. It’s the internal drive that keeps you going when things get hard or when there are setbacks. 

In 1 Corinthians 15:58, I think Paul was encouraging the saints to have grit: “…be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 

Passion is loving what you do. It’s finding enjoyment in the day as you focus on being good and doing good. Rather than seeing gospel rituals as duties or demands, it’s finding and sharing the joy that comes from obedience, prayer, scriptures, church attendance and service. 

“To persevere firm and steadfast in the faith of Christ requires that the gospel of Jesus Christ penetrate one’s heart and soul, meaning that the gospel becomes not just one of many influences in a person’s life but the defining focus of his or her life and character” (Elder D. Todd Christofferson). 

Perseverance is embracing the process of becoming. Rather than quitting when it gets hard, it’s getting back up after feeling discouraged and trying again because you’re committed to your passion. 

“Regardless of the size, scope, and seriousness of the challenges we face in life, we all have times when we feel like stopping, leaving, escaping, or possibly giving up. But exercising faith in our Savior, Jesus Christ, helps us overcome discouragement no matter what obstacles we encounter” (Carl B. Cook). 

Grit isn’t an individual effort. It’s made possible by support from friends, families, teachers, and mentors. Grit in the gospel includes the greatest support possible–Jesus Christ. 

What is your current level of grit in the gospel? 

They “were converted unto the true faith; and they would not depart from it, for they were firm, and steadfast, and immovable, willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of the Lord” (3 Ne 6:14).