Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day”
(2 Timothy 1:11-12).
Suffering is not pleasant. That is an understatement, isn’t it? However, various degrees of suffering have been inevitable for those who truly want to serve the Lord. At the lowest level of suffering, believers have been ridiculed and rejected over the generations since the Apostle Paul. At the greatest level, believers have been harassed, arrested, imprisoned, tortured and martyred for the cause of Christ. In our text for today, Paul knew that he was nearing the end of his life. Look closely once again at what he said. First, his ministry was a God-appointment. Second, his suffering was directly related to his stand for Christ. Third, he was not ashamed. Fourth, he knew Whom he believed and was persuaded of Christ’s ability to keep his commitment. This is good for us to review and embrace.
For today: Let’s ask the Lord to help us know such conviction and persuasion.