“Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 2:3, NIV)
It is common knowledge that hardship is a part of military life. In fact, effective preparation for combat requires training that closely approximates the conditions of real conflict. Cheap substitutes for tough, realistic training don’t work.
In this verse the old veteran, Paul, is telling the young soldier, Timothy, that the Christian life is not for the weak. It requires guts and determination to endure the hardships that are certain to come. Paul had every right to make this challenge due to the incredible suffering he had experienced for the cause of Christ. He had endured shipwrecks, lashing with whips, beatings with rods, imprisonment, and even stoning. Paul’s body bore the marks of his service for Jesus Christ.
Want to be a good soldier for the Lord? Be willing to endure the hardships that are part of the Christian walk. This doesn’t mean that you go looking for hardships. But when they come into your life as you try to serve God, don’t run from them. Fight on! Jesus endured the cross for you. Be willing to carry your cross for Him.
