Did you ever just feel like quitting? The way seemed too difficult or the task too hard so that you just wanted to give up? Yet, we know that we must not give up or give in to the pressures of the world. In Mark 13:13, Jesus says: "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." The word "endure" means to remain under, i.e., to persevere, endure, sustain, bear up under, suffer, as a load of miseries, adversities, persecutions or provocations with faith. We endure the difficulties by keeping faith in God and His Word. As I read and study God's Word I gain strength from that Word to enable me to endure. I am not in this world by myself. I have God the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit, plus the community of believers I am with to help me. I can endure; I will endure.
The Family Bible Notes explains: "It is through much tribulation that Christians must enter the kingdom of God. But they should not be anxious. Let them be found at all times in the path of duty, and when trials come they may expect to be prepared for them. God will suffer no calamities to come upon them, except those which he will overrule for the advancement of his glory and their highest good."
Today, know that whatever comes, both good and bad, you can endure. You can remain true to the faith. Rely upon God and the believers He has placed you with to help. If today finds you untested, find a good brother or sister in Christ that needs your help. Endurance works both ways; you will endure and you should help another that is struggling to endure. You will find that as you help the one struggling, you are growing stronger in your endurance.
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