1. We will suffer. 2 Timothy 3:12: "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." It is inevitable and part of our walk with the Lord. Most likely, we will suffer for our faith at one point in our life, whether verbal, physical, or emotional. But the good news is that God gives us the tools we need to overcome and combat these attacks.
2. We, as Christians, are called to endure. 2 Timothy 3:14-15: But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." An upbringing in church and deep-rooted faith in Jesus Christ are two things that can strengthen one's endurance. As you grow older, your faith will be tested, by new friends, family members, or college professors. You must know what you believe, how to defend your beliefs, and how to stick with your beliefs. Another vital "tool" for endurance, available to all, is the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." When looking for instruction or verifying information given, the Bible is the perfect tool to use! Unlike a lot of other books, everything in it is TRUE and useful.
Also, if you are a Christian, you are not the same, nor will you ever be. 2 Corinthians 5:17: "If anyone is in Christ, she is a new creation. The old has gone the new has come." You have undergone a Spiritual rebirth! That, in itself, is something to celebrate. 1 Timothy 6:12: "Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses."
3. Jesus suffered. That might sound weird, but as a human, Jesus suffered. Hebrews 2:18: "Because He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted." What did He suffer? "Who for the joy set before Him endured the cross" Hebrews 12:2. Whom did he suffer for? "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps" 1 Peter 2:21. Lastly, God IS love. Human love cannot hold a candle to God's unconditional and everlasting love that He gives us freely. And one thing that endures all others is God's love.
~M
