“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 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.

How wonderful is this for you and me regardless of what is happening in our lives just now! We live in a broken world who literally hates our beloved Savior. Friends, don’t be surprised if the world’s people don’t love you either! Part of this broken world is not only suffering; it is the wonderful blessing of knowing the Lord and being firmly persuaded that He is able. He’s able to care for us, keep us, lead us, and strengthen us. This is good for us to review and embrace.

This is my personal focus today: Let’s ask the Lord to help us know such conviction and persuasion.