by leaps and bounds

“But he that shall endure unto the end; the same shall be saved.” (MATTHEW 24:13)

The Biblical meaning for enduring is to “bear up under.” As Christians, we bear up under hardships, persecution, and temptation.

Jesus came into this world and experienced life as we know it. In John 16:33 He declared: “…In this world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” Essentially, He was saying, “I have made it. You will too.”

Enduring is a very real component of being a Christian. In fact, enduring is a part of life that we all experience.

Imagine Timothy reading the words of the Apostle Paul: “Then therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ”. In a war, soldiers experience discomfort, deprivation, and danger. Christians also suffer hardship – both as a result of being a Christian and as a result of everyday life.

It is a reality that Satan will always tempt us to turn away from God and return to the darkness of sin. Enduring temptation is difficult, but the reward for doing so is great. Notice James’ encouraging words:

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” (James 1:2)

Then there is the possibility of enduring persecution for our faith. Jesus actually stated that because people hated Him, they would also hate His followers. Persecution may come in various forms. However, Jesus said, “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my name sake.” (Matthew 5:11)

Now let’s look at the positive connection of the word enduring:

* God’s goodness is enduring. “Why boasteth thyself in mischief, O mighty man? The goodness of God endureth continually.” (Psalm 52:1)

* God’s mercy is enduring. “Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth forever.” (Psalm 118:2)

* God’s Word is enduring. “But the word of the Lord endureth forever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” (I Peter 1:25)

*Our Lord is enduring. “But the Lord shall endure forever; he hath prepared his throne for judgement.” (Psalm 9:7)

We can see that “enduring” is a word Christians will be familiar with throughout life. The important thing to remember is that if we endure to the end, we will spend an enduring eternity in an enduring Heaven with our enduring Lord.

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Dave Snyder is an Ordained Bishop with the Church of God – Cleveland, Tennessee. Before entering the ministry on a full-time basis, he was a school teacher. He also coached middle school basketball for eight years.

Dave and his wife, Sara, have two children  — Craig and Karen. They also have one ten year old granddaughter  — Breanna. 

Dave and Sara pastored in West Virginia for thirty-six years. Sara is now retired from the banking industry, and Dave is retired from pastoring. However, Dave currently serves as prison Chaplain for the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 

Writing essays, articles, and devotionals is a real passion for Dave. He also enjoys playing musical instruments and singing.