Christians encounter temptation, obstacles, struggles and weakness every day. Our adversary (Satan), our environment (the world) and our nature (the flesh) are relentlessly trying to undermine our objective and desire to faithfully serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We need endurance to run this race.
- Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
- Jesus was Eager to Endure: confidently focused on ultimate outcomes, He steadfastly continued on through unimaginable suffering and shame.
It is tempting to take the easy path, to be jealous of those who carelessly, selfishly or recklessly blast through life without care or concern for the impact and consequences of how they live.
- Proverbs 23:17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, But be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day;
- Don’t lose your focus, steadfastly respect and honor the Lord at all times.
The endurance needed for the Christian life doesn’t come naturally. We need God and His church (the body of Christ – our brothers and sisters in Christ) to persevere. Here are four foundational factors that will help ensure that you are Eager to Endure.
Emulation
- Hebrews 6:11-12 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
- Learn from those whose faith and fortitude honor the Lord and His calling. Then put what you learn into action.
Expectation
- James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
- Joyfully expect God to use the trials and tragedies of today to mold and mature you for tomorrow.
Exhortation
- Acts 14:21-22 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
- Humbly and genuinely accept the encouragement and support of other Christians. God will use His saints to lift you up.
Energization
- Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Acknowledge, accept, appreciate and apply the presence, power and purpose of the Holy Spirit in your life.
Are you Eager to Endure?
Remember what God has done!
Relish what God is doing!
Rely on what God has promised!
Prayer
Praise to You Lord for all You have done, all You are doing, and all that You will do!! Holy, holy, holy is Your name. I pray that when I am weak, scared, lonely, confused, frustrated, tired or uncertain, that in Your love, grace and mercy, You will help me to endure for Your glory. Put Godly people in front of me. Help me trust all You do and allow. Help me to accept encouragement. Fill me with Your Spirit. Make me eager to endure the life You have called me to live. I pray these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
