The word from the New Testament most commonly translated as “joy” in English is the Greek word chara. In that original language (as in Hebrew of the Old Testament) this word described more than an emotional state, but instead and entire disposition of thought. This can be quite different from our modern concept of “joy” which is linked with one’s personal feelings.
The word translated as “perseverance” in the NASU is a powerful one in regard to the Christian spiritual walk. An example of its usage can be seen in 2 Pet. 1:6:
“and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness.”
Perfection is an incredibly difficult, and ultimately impossible, goal to attain. This is true in the life of man in a moral sense, and also just in day to day experience where we will inevitably make mistakes. This is true in a manufacturing sense where all materials have a degree of imperfection, the concept of entropy means everything will at some point break down, and design flaws eventually occur. This is true in the realm of government where, inefficiency and corruption aside, the best worded law will never perfectly encompass every situation.
Although it might surprise those who understand the seriousness of man’s sin problem, there are those in the world who may ask why God is so concerned with the condemnation of sin in the world. Without understanding the tragic impact of sin, some assume God is seeking simply to be “controlling” or that God is simply a “downer” not wanting them to have any fun.
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 (NASU)
This verse describes the Word of God as being more than a mere “rulebook” or “guide” to godly living, but instead having a true living power of its own.