All
scripture references are in the New International Version (NIV)
unless otherwise noted.
Opening
Jn. 5:17 “… ‘My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working,’ ”
What God Will Do
Jam. 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.”
Rev. 2:10 “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
2 Tim. 4:8 “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day …”
1 Pet. 5:4 “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”
1 Cor. 9:25 “… that will last forever.”
Rom. 3:23, NASB, “… all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, …”
What We Must Do
Jam. 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.”
1 Tim. 4:16 “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.”
2 Thess 2:15 “So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.”
1 Jn. 4:19 “We love [Him – God] because He first loved us.”
Rom 2:6-7 “God ‘will give to each person according to what he has done.’ To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, He will give eternal life.”
Acts 10:38 “… how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how He went around doing good …”