Yesterday we examined the necessity of endurance. Today, look at the words Paul wrote to Timothy: "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." 2 Timothy 2:3 This was written just prior to Paul's martyrdom. He wanted to leave some thought to Timothy that would help him in the difficult days ahead. What does it mean to endure "hardness?" "Hardness" means to suffer evil or afflictions, or to be afflicted. In the natural, we don't want to hear that. Our common sense says to flee hardness, or to try and make it better. Paul says endure it. Now does that mean that we should not try to make a bad situation better? No; but it does mean that when we have done all we know to do and the situation remains one of affliction toward us, we are to endure it to the glory of God. I believe in Divine Healing. I believe it is God's will to heal, yet I see times that He doesn't heal. In those times, I do not question God but instead I endure until I see change. If I don't see change, I endure. This is Paul's advice and it is good advice.
Albert Barnes explains: "Soldiers often endure great privations. Taken from their homes and friends; exposed to cold, or heat, or storms, or fatiguing marches; sustained on coarse fare, or almost destitute of food, they are often compelled to endure as much as the human frame can bear, and often, indeed, sink under their burdens and die. If, for reward or their country's sake, they are willing to do this, the soldier of the cross should be willing to do it for his Saviour's sake, and for the good of the human race." Our level of commitment to Jesus Christ should exceed that of any earthly soldier.
Today, practice being a soldier for Christ. Be up early for the Word and prayer. Carry your weapons with you wherever you go, i.e. the Sword of the Spirit the Word of God. Be prepared to engage in spiritual warfare at a moment's notice. Finally, never fall asleep at your post. You are in the army of God now!
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