Possessing a Proper Perspective of Suffering

8So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, 9who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day. 2 Timothy 1:8-12

It is easy to lose heart when we feel we are suffering unjustly. However, when we live with a sense of purpose we can persevere through any trial. In fact, when we possess a proper perspective of suffering, it helps us realize that our suffering is producing in us a character that reflects Christ.

The crown of glory is attained on the road of suffering. Nothing worthwhile is ever achieved without a tremendous sacrifice. Apostle Paul embraced suffering as a badge of honor because spreading the gospel of Jesus is the most significant purpose on earth. His imprisonment produced an internal fortitude and validated the fact that he was called to be an apostle. What an honor it was for him to suffer in the same way as his Lord.

Can you think of a time in your life when suffering made you a stronger person?

The Fight for Freedom and Faith

What would you draft if you were writing a document founding a new nation?

In the Declaration of Independence we find answers to this question. I hope everyone had a great July 4th weekend with family and friends commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, officially asserting independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain.

Our founders knew they were embarking on an unprecedented campaign as they drafted the Declaration of Independence. The lessons they learned from experience and history influenced their view on effective governing systems. They also understood that the framework of government they were instituting would impact future generations of Americans. I am thankful they were faithful to endure suffering and persecution to help found our great nation. They fought for freedom and we are recipients of their sacrifice.

What would you communicate if you were writing the last letter of your life?

In the letter of Second Timothy we find answers to this question. Second Timothy is a bold, clear call for perseverance in the gospel in spite of suffering. Paul calls on his young coworker to continue the fight of faith, even as Paul approaches the end of his own life. The letter pictures Paul in prison in Rome, awaiting death. Most likely, then, this letter was written during Paul’s second Roman imprisonment.

Second Timothy is very personal, as would be expected in a final letter to a close friend and coworker. Paul exhorts Timothy to continue in faithfulness and points to his own life as an example for Timothy to follow. What he calls on Timothy to do, he himself has already done.

Whether you are drafting a declaration of independence or writing the last letter of your life, it is important to recognize you are part of history and should live to leave a Godly legacy.

2 Timothy 1:3-4 says, “I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.”

Apostle Paul begins his letter by thanking God while recalling the faithful service of his forefathers, and reminding Timothy that he was constantly in his prayers. In the midst of persecution and prison, Apostle Paul found encouragement that led to endurance from two sources.

First, he reminded himself of the faith of his forefathers. Paul recognized that his ministry was part of a historic mission that others had served with great sacrifice and devotion. He knew it was an honor to be chosen by God to carry on this mission. As Paul ran his race, he found inner strength by remembering those who had already ran their lap well.

Second, he kept his spiritual son Timothy on the forefront of is mind. Paul knew it was important to leave a legacy worthy of emulation. While suffering, Paul never gave up because he had a hope that Timothy would serve God faithfully. The thought of Timothy standing strong for the Lord was a source of joy for Paul.

Our founders and Apostle Paul had two things in common. The recognized they were a part of history and they lived to leave a Godly legacy. I hope and pray we will continue to value the words they penned, and pass them on to future generations.

Do you recognize you are part of history and are you living to leave a Godly legacy?