For the Faithful
Determination
Tackling barriers one step at a time toward a goal
Our current faith‑based resources are written from a Christian perspective, but we know that many other faith traditions also nurture strong character, and we want to honor and uplift that diversity.
We are actively seeking contributors from additional faith traditions who would like to help us expand this section. If you are interested, we would be grateful to partner with you.
Determination helps believers persevere in faith and service.
When we continue despite challenges, we reflect God’s sustaining strength. Determination encourages others to remain steadfast.
Essay
Be Your Very Best in the Darkest Moments
by Jill Tomey
Naval Seal Trainee McRaven tells of the final test of the Dive Phase of training. In the dark waters of the San Diego bay, swim pairs needed to swim 2000 meters underwater to a ‘target’ ship and place their practice limpet mine on the hull. They only had a small green chemical light to illuminate their compass. Missing the target could mean ending up in the shipping lane. The instructors knew that this assignment held the most danger for injuring or losing a recruit. The instructors explained how dark the waters were, especially under the ship and that staying with your swim buddy was crucial. They encouraged the swimmers to rise above their fears, their doubts, and their fatigue. No matter how dark it got, they needed to complete the mission.
The Admiral carried these instructions with him throughout his career. Whenever times were dark, he dug deep to bring out his best. Fallen soldiers created the darkest of times. Ramp Ceremonies brought out the best despite the darkness. Fellow soldiers dug deep to pay incredible honor and respect to the fallen. It recognized the ultimate sacrifice of the lost and the family and friends they left behind. As part of the final show of gratitude, Isaiah 6:8 is read. “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send and who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here I am. Send me.’”
The Admiral concludes this chapter with, “At some point, we will all confront a dark moment in life. If not the passing of a loved one, then something else that crushes your spirit and leaves you wondering about your future. In that dark moment, reach deep inside yourself and be your very best.”
The quote from Isaiah in this chapter speaks to all of us. Each of us is called to live out our baptismal mission. When times are dark, we need to dig deep within our Faith and be determined to complete that mission.
This month, how can you be Determined to overcome dark times with your best?
All the essays this month are based on the book, Make your bed: little things that can change your life…and maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven (U.S. Navy retired). It is about the lessons he learned in Navy SEAL training that served him well his whole career. The training is beyond brutal to weed out the weak and give confidence to the strong. It takes strength and the ultimate Determination to make it to graduation.
Affirmations for the Faithful
I set goals that honor who God is shaping me to be.
I anticipate distractions and create systems that help me stay focused on what God has called me to do.
I persevere through challenges, trusting that God strengthens me as I continue.
I choose a hopeful attitude, knowing God works through every challenge for my good.
I take each step with faith, believing God equips me to do hard things.
Determination Resource Library
The Links below will take you to Resources, like activities, reflections, and visuals you can use personally or in your faith organization to encourage the Character Quality of Determination.
Determination Verses
Want to deepen your understanding of Determination through Scripture? Explore our collection of Determination Bible Verses for inspiration and reflection.
