Encouragement Study: Edition #4

2nd Timothy 2:1-13
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself.

-Enduring is encouraging. How is that? Well, let's say that someone endures some kind of hardship for being a soldier of Christ. Even though that may be tough, not just for that person, but for everyone knowing that person, the simple fact that they continue to push through encourages others.

I've seen it through my experience and I have been encouraged by others who have gone through certain experiences. As a matter of fact, a couple I know has experienced some recent hardship, and seeing how they cling to God is encouraging to me. Johnny Out.