The Daily Encounter
"Endure"
9 for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! 10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
2 Timothy 2:9-10 ESV
Suffering is an inevitable part of the Christian life.
Jesus suffered. He told His disciples they would too. A majority of the Apostles gave their life for the faith. The early church was well acquainted with the cost of following Christ. And even today, more Christians are being persecuted than at any time in history.
So how do we respond to such suffering and hardship? We may not (yet) face prison or execution for our faith, but their is still a price to pay for sharing the Gospel and even just living an authentic Christian life. (2 Timothy 3.12)
In 2 Timothy, Paul gives Timothy three responses to suffering:
#1 - Don't be ashamed of the Gospel or those that suffer for it. (2 Timothy 1.8) Don't shrink back or shrivel under the pressure others would heap upon you because of your affiliation with Christ or those who believe.
#2 - Share in suffering for the Gospel. (2 Timothy 2.3) This is a strange invitation but an invitation nonetheless. Paul is encouraging Timothy to embrace and become a participant with him in the suffering that comes from following and preaching Jesus.
#3 - Endure suffering. (2 Timothy 2.9-10) To endure means "to remain under". It's a call to perseverance. It's a challenge to not give up. It's a recognition of the hardship but a reminder of our lasting promise. Though the cost may be great, the hope is even greater. So endure.
So how about you? What's the price you might be asked to pay for the Gospel TODAY? It might not cost you your life to openly follow Christ or to share His Word, but there will be a cost. It might be a strained relationship or an awkward encounter. But there will be a cost. So stop trying to avoid it. Don't chase it, but be willing to embrace it. And know that you are joining millions of others who have had the privilege of suffering for His name. (Philippians 1.29-30)
-Landon R
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