In a general sense, denotes immutability, or invariableness. When applied to the human mind, it is a steady adherence to those schemes and resolutions which have been maturely formed; the effect of which is, that a man never drops a good design out of fear, and is consistent with himself in all his words and actions. Constancy is more particularly required of us.
1. In our devotions, Luk 18:1. 1Th 5:17-18.
2. Under our sufferings, Mat 5:12-13. 1Pe 4:12-13.
3. In our profession and character, Heb 10:23.
4. In our beneficence, Gal 6:9.
5. In our friendships, Pro 27:10.
The virtue whereby one bears the continual burden of a Christian life. It differs from perscverance in this, that as perseverance regards the attaining of the end, with a special difficulty in the length of time to reach it; so constancy, regarding rather the succession of impediments, overcomes their number and variety.