Suffering

 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
2 Timothy 1:8 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/2ti.1.8.ESV

The testimony about our Lord is costly. It's the kind of thing that would get you locked up in many parts of the world even today. It is tempting to be ashamed of the suffering that accompanies faith in Jesus.

Paul however, prisoner of the Lord, commands Timothy not to be ashamed of the good news, even as the world despises it. Our worth is fixed in heaven. It isn't to be found in the world's estimation.

We know that Timothy was a naturally timid character. If we're honest, we all shy away from suffering. Paul tells Timothy however to share in suffering for the sake of Christ.

Christ went to the cross for us. By the power of God He overcame the suffering He endured. By that same power, we too can overcome.

'Almighty God, please work powerfully in us to overcome the suffering we face as we look forward to the glory that is to come. In Jesus' name, amen'

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