I want to encourage you to be persistent in 2026. You know, the Bible tells us that we are to be found faithful. And to be persistent is to continue on, even with obstacles.

The nation of Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground, and they set up camp in Gilgal. They consecrated themselves to the Lord. They were obedient to God’s Word, marching around the walls in that great victory at Jericho. And then, of course, the southern battle. God rains down hailstones from heaven. All these miracles are taking place. He holds the sun still, and they defeat that southern group.

But in Joshua chapter 11, the greatest battle is yet ahead of them. And this one marks the battle where they have the most on the line. It takes them seven years to cross the Jordan and claim the promised land. And now they’re coming to their biggest battle. All the northern kingdoms have come together to fight at the waters of Merom. And you know, there’s no miracles taking place. There’s no waters being parted. They’re not walking across on dry ground. There’s no walls crashing down. There’s no hailstones coming down from heaven. God’s not holding the sun still. They just had to continue on against all of these northern kingdoms. And God gave them their greatest victory because they didn’t throw the towel in.

And can I say that your greatest victories come from just staying in the battle? In 2026, don’t quit and don’t throw in the towel. Just stay faithful to God and watch as He blesses you. I read this morning from the book of Proverbs that blessings come to those who are faithful.

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John Evertson

John Evertson, GSBC Campus Pastor

In June 2000, after graduating from Golden State Baptist College, John Evertson answered the call to pastor West Valley Baptist Church in Woodland, California. After 19 years, God moved Pastor and Mrs. Evertson to Santa Clara. Pastor Evertson is instrumental in the church and serves as the Campus Pastor for Golden State Baptist College to help guide the future servants of God. Pastor & Mrs. Evertson have four children — Josiah, Jeremiah, Joy, and Joshua.