.....endured

We must encourage our Brothers and Sisters when they are down and remind one another that God is near, that our trials will soon fade; "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today!" Hebrews 3:13

Jesus endured ridicule and humiliation from His accusers, and overwhelming pain on the cross, simply because He dearly loved us.  The joy of seeing our restored relationship with the Father allowed Him to persevere through unbelievable hardship.  His sacrifice brought us Salvation - His perseverance should bring us strength and a renewed hope.

"Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."Hebrews 12:3  

There are going to be days when the burden seems extra heavy - days when the attacks come fast and furious and feel like they will never end.  It may bring temporary relief for someone to agree and confirm the difficulty of our situation, but the only way to truly ease the load is to focus our heart back to Christ and pray for His strength; "May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance" 2 Thessalonians 3:5.  

We must persevere... because He first persevered for us!

There is definitely a place within the Body for compassion and the sharing of one another's sorrows; but when our burdens become seemingly unbearable, we must also encourage one another to simply put one foot in front of the other and boldly continue down His path.  His grace and His strength WILL be sufficient!  We will not lose heart if we focus on His love.  We will persevere and not grow weary if we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and consider Him who endured.

- steve troxel