The word for the week is Endurance

Scripture: "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" 2 Timothy 2:11-13

The life of a Christian is not always easy. In fact, it can be quite a difficult experience. Often times, we find ourselves in positions where the world does not understand us, family and friends often reject us, and the church is not always a safe haven. Many of our Biblical personalities endured hardship and were familiar with the thought process "Nobody knows the trouble I see, Nobody knows life's sorrows." We as Christians are expected to do so much, some by our own expectations and others by the world's expectations of us.

In the midst of trials and tribulations, we often want to give in or at least look the other way. In a meeting, one of my parishioners said "Don't make me have to take off my religion for a few moments." That was a puzzling statement to me; it fits the "Sunday morning Christian" mentality -- it's not always consistent.

Endurance is a completely different concept. Endurance means regardless of what happens, I will remain faithful to who I am called to be and what I am called to do. Our Lord and Savior suffered in this world more than any of us will ever have to suffer. But his love for us made him endure until the end. Should not our love for him make us endure until the end?

Regardless of what the world places in your way "Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might." Endure persecution, endure hardships, endure gossip against you, endure the attacks of the enemy ... ENDURE for "Greater is he that's in you than he that's in the world!" Endure because "No weapon formed against you shall prosper." Endure because "You are more than a conqueror in Jesus our Lord"

This week, let us focus on endurance. Sure, we would like the Lord to simply "Move our Mountains," taking the problems out of our lives, but the true reward comes when we endure to the end. "Faithful is the Lord who calleth you, and shall also do it" (1 Thessalonians 5:24)

"Must Jesus bear the cross alone and all the world go free? No there's a cross for everyone, and there's a cross for me"

Let us pray: Dear Lord, I surrender my all to you in thanksgiving and adoration to your holy name. Bless me, that I may endure whatever comes my way to be a testimony to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.

For more information on this ministry, you are invited to our web site by clicking here New Life or by typing http://www.forministry.com/uskyafmecnlnln

My brothers and sisters in Christ, this message comes to you to bring NEW LIFE to bless your spirit. It is a weekly newsletter and prayer with a word from the Lord. If you wish to receive this mailing in your email, simply write back and your name will be added future mailings.

-- Anonymous, August 12, 2002

Answers

Congratulations to Rev. Dee Wilson for a beautiful internet ministry. I am a member, and this blesses me very much. I come faithfully to our church's computer just to read the pearls of wisdom from this young lady. To God be the glory! If you've ever heard her preach, you know she is anointed and appointed. Thanks Pastor

-- Anonymous, August 12, 2002