Labour

 and we labour, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure;
1 Corinthians 4:12 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.4.12.ESV

Paul and company laboured hard. No-one could accuse them of being idlers, or of choosing the ministry as an easy option. Instead, he worked night and day to earn his keep.

Paul worked as a tent maker as well as a minister. He was holding down two jobs as he made the good news known. He deserved to earn his living purely by preaching, but he didn't insist on that right.

Sadly, Paul and his team were often reviled, and worse. Instead of retaliating however, they blessed those who cursed them. That's how far away we need to be from hitting back at those who hurt us.

How did Paul and team endure persecution, which was often violent and painful? No doubt by remembering Christ's promise. We're blessed when we're persecuted because our reward is then great in heaven.

'Dear God Almighty, please help us to endure the hardships we face by trusting in You and working hard for You. For the honour of Your name, amen'

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