Second Timothy contains the touching testimony of the apostle Paul. He says that his life is being “poured out like a drink offer” and that the time has come for him to die (2 Timothy 4:6). He says in verse 5: “But you, Timothy, keep your head in every situation, endure hardships, and discharge all your duties as an evangelist.” 2 Corinthians 11;23-28. Paul had been imprisoned and stoned, starved, shipwrecked. He was also hungry, cold, thirsty, and detained. Despite all of this, Paul was able to endure the pain, finish the race and keep his faith (2 Timothy 4:7).
There are many ways that hardships can occur. There are many types of hardship: Temptations and illnesses, lost jobs, broken relations, as well as persecution for one’s faith. Christians shouldn’t be surprised by hardships: Jesus warned us that “In this world, you will have trouble” (John 16:33). Jesus added this encouragement to His warning: “But keep your heart!” He has overcome the world. We can persevere by His grace.
To endure means more than simply continuing to exist. It is also continuing to exist in the same way before the suffering began. Paul would not have survived if he had not lived through his sufferings and at some point, had given up on God or stopped working for the cause.
Paul’s response to suffering wasn’t to give in to the pressure of circumstances, but to recognize that Christ called His church to suffer hardship (John 16;33; Mark 14:27). Paul stated that he rejoiced in Christ’s sufferings because in his flesh, he was filling up the gap (Colossians 1:24). Paul identified more with Christ when he was hungry, chained, or beat every time. Paul could rejoice that he was suffering in his flesh to share in the sufferings Christ suffered (Philippians 3:11).
1 Corinthians 11:13. Christians should be open to God’s help in times of suffering. He will faithfully assist us through every trial and overcome all temptations. It is possible to experience the joy that Paul experienced during his trials. We know that suffering can produce virtues like endurance, godly character and lively hope (Romans 5,3-5).
“Endure” doesn’t mean to just grin and bear it. Christians may feel angry, sad, or betrayed at times. These emotions are not sinful in themselves. They can only be made to grow in our lives and cause bitterness, evil thoughts, revenge or unforgiveness. Believers need to remember that all that happens in our lives is under the sovereign control of God. He has also promised that He will work everything out for the good and glory of those who love Him, are called according His purpose (Romans 8.28).
Jesus Christ is the perfect example of someone who has endured hardship (Hebrews 12:2). Hebrews’ author reminds believers about Christ’s endurance in the face of sinners. Jesus did not give up, even in great pain. Hebrews 12 :2 states that Jesus suffered the cross for the joy he had in store. He also knew the rewards – redemption of the human race and a place at the right-hand God. Christians can also find hope when they consider the promises God has given them. Do not lose your faith; you will be richly rewarded. Keep fighting until you receive the promises of God. You must persevere because God promises that he will soon come. I do not take pleasure in those who shrink back. But those who have faith and are saved are our true friends” (Hebrews 10.35-39).
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