Larry Mancini

Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

(2 Timothy 2.3)

The apostle Paul was writing to his son in the gospel, Timothy. It is interesting that he does not say, "If you encounter hardship…but when…." Paul knew Timothy would face hard times. Everyone who follows Jesus experiences some kind of hardship—physical, emotional, relational. No one is exempt.

Perhaps you have received a recent setback. If you have not, you will soon. We are not told to find a way to escape hardship. We are told to endure it—suffer through it—to the end.

I am increasingly blessed by the examples of people in my life who have lived out this verse. What an inspiration they have been to me! There is a beauty that is within them and without. The beauty within is the character God is developing; the beauty without, the strong stand they have in Christ. I remember my pastor of 30 years ago going through hardship and the sweetness of his spirit and how he encouraged forgiveness. Following a split, he could have led the church into bitterness, but he didn't. He led us into a lifestyle of prayer and forgiveness. He endured hardship like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Those difficult times had a certain “preciousness” about them for those of us who watched that good man endure hardship like Jesus!

Lord, you know where I am today. I am following the way that leads to life eternal!  Help me to remember that at times the way will be hard. Help me to seek to please you. Help me to live by your Holy Word. Help me to see the blessings you have given this week. Help me to remember heaven is ahead and a crown awaits me! In the Name of Christ Jesus I pray. Amen.