The Beauty of Endurance

This is why I endure all things for the elect: so that they also may obtain salvation, which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

2 Timothy 2:10 CSB

            When was the last time you were put in a position where you needed ultimate endurance? I was contemplating this while journaling today and thankful the last time I felt I needed to endure was dealing with the attitude of my sweet granddaughter. Not to tough in the scheme of things. I am surrounded by people who are having to endure much worse, although I can’t categorize or try to order their pain. Each of these life events is causing soul searching faith and constant prayer on  their behalf. My friends are dealing with home buying craziness, addiction of family members, broken bones, sickness of friends, and relationship struggles. Everyone of these individuals would tell you that enduring these trials takes faith and they are willing to go through it all so the gospel is on display.

            My friend who broke her leg this week stated, “I’m planning on a successful, safe, speedy recovery in God’s hands. I’m looking forward to being a witness of God’s love when I get through this.” What incredible faith she is showing. Her endurance through this will be something to keep an eye on, but I have no doubt she will be able to withstand by trusting in Almighty God.

            So many Bible stories share suffering had by people who stay faithful to the One True God. In our world, sin has taken over and captivated so many. God may often be the furthest thing from our thoughts because we are caught up in fantasies, videos, Facebook stories, news articles, and tantalizing ideas that give instant gratification. Our faith can fall short so quickly when we turn to the world to help fulfill our souls when faced with a difficult situation.

            When Paul wrote 2 Timothy 2:10, “This is why I endure all things for the elect: so that they also may obtain salvation, which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.”, he was writing from prison after being jailed for preaching about Christ. He was certainly facing imminent execution yet chose to write about spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He could have done what we often do and turned to the world during this time rather than staying faithful to Christ. He could have used his Roman citizenship to place him on a pedestal and remove him from his imprisonment. He could have worshiped the current emperor and paid homage to Roman gods in order to get him out of his predicament. He might have turned his focus and attention to chariot races and gladiatorial games to take his mind off his suffering. These were the trends of the time. This is what was popular and garnered people’s attention. Just like our social trends today. But, instead, he remained faithful, preaching the gospel to guards, singing worship songs to the Lord, and writing letters to friends to encourage them in their toils. Just like my friend who will most likely not be able to drive for six weeks or more due to three breaks in her tibia, Paul wanted to continue to bring people to see Christ for the hope and joy we can only have in knowing and turning to Him.

We may never find ourselves in prison or have multiple broken bones at one time, but we will find ourselves needing to endure a situation which, in our minds, is difficult and will need a way to persist through it without sacrificing our faith. Paul’s dedication in this verse helps us understand our salvation is found exclusively in Christ. This salvation is the foundation of our Christian doctrine. We must have a personal relationship with Jesus in order for us to call on him in our time of need. Humbling ourselves and relying on Christ in order to prevail is the faith He calls us to. And in the end, the promise of eternal glory is our hope. This glory is the ultimate reward for those who endure in faith, providing motivation and encouragement amidst present sufferings.

There will come a time when our aching and agonizing, grieving and writhing, will end. There will come a time when we are no longer crying out, lying prostrate begging for help in some way, praying for this hurting and torment to subside. As we endure through our struggles, God comes along side us and provides peace. The Holy Spirit will provide words of encouragement through people and positive thoughts. God can also provide complete healing of all situations if it is in His will. Our faith and prayers, our perseverance and dedication to staying in the Word will help to bring forward all that God has to offer. It will come in His time alone, but it will come. Open your eyes wide to see the ways He is bringing hope, joy, healing, peace, calm into your time of enduring. With our eyes wide open we will be prepared to accept what God has to offer.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, I thank You for always being near and providing a way out when my endurance fails. Thank You for providing everything I may need during struggles, knowing the outcome and being prepared to take control. Lord, help me to see exactly what You need me to see and to keep my eyes open to all the ways You are moving in my life.

Today’s Challenge

In what ways can you open your eyes to see how God is working in your life? What do you need to do today to be sure you see Him?