Be Confident!

In response to the “teEn-MAIL” focus from a couple days ago (“What Is!”) dealing with worry, one reader sent the following quote: “I’ve suffered from a great number of things in this life, some of which actually happened.” [original source unknown]

It can be easy to become pessimistic regarding life. Many things happen which could cause us at times to expect the worst. Even the suffering from imagined things is real, but not necessary to be ENDURED. There are enough situations that are real. Why compound them with that which is not? Can we continue to find confidence in God regardless of what we might face?

In this life we are called to ENDURE. We may have suffered many things and will most likely face others. Those whom the writer of Hebrews addressed had been struggling through some very challenging times. Encouragement was needed for them to continue to ENDURE, holding on to their faith. In an attempt to help these Christians keep their suffering in perspective, the Hebrew writer reminded them of the suffering Christ ENDURED and the fact they themselves had not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood. ( Hebrews 12:3-4) Is that our situation as well?

The Hebrew writer encouraged…
“(32) But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, YOU ENDURED A HARD STRUGGLE WITH SUFFERINGS, (33) sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. (34) For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. (35) Therefore DO NOT THROW AWAY YOUR CONFIDENCE, which has a great reward. (36) For YOU HAVE NEED OF ENDURANCE, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.” ( Hebrews 10:32-36 ESV)

When we made the decision to be baptized into Christ, we began a walk of faith. We trusted Him enough to accept what only He could offer. Our life became different. Our perspective changed. And transformation more and more into His likeness is to continue. What we trusted in Him for then we can trust Him for now! Let us not throw away our confidence as we continue to ENDURE through the challenges of this life. We will receive what is promised!

Have a great day HOLDING AN OPTIMISTIC VIEW TOWARD ETERNITY!
Carl

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