Author Darlene Conard

In addition to Job’s endurance, there was Jeremiah, who persistently preached to an unfaithful nation. The authorities imprisoned him and restrained him in stocks. The scrolls he wrote were burned in a stoked fire, and he was eventually left to die in the mud, ultimately being labeled a liar. (Jeremiah 7:27, 20:1-2, 36:23, 43:2)

The Apostle Paul was imprisoned multiple times, flogged, and came face to face with death numerous times, five times received lashes, and three times beaten with rods, sturdy rods. Assaulted with stones and three times shipwrecked. (2 Corinthians 11:23-33) Jesus endured great affliction. Beaten barebacked with a whip with nine strands of braided leather with metal claws is brutal. Undoubtedly, large chunks of flesh lay on the ground in pools of blood. (Matthew 27:32-66)

In Isaiah 54:1-12, we find a poignant depiction of suffering and sacrifice. This passage reveals how He endured oppression and affliction, bearing the weight of rejection and disdain from those around Him. He was bruised for our transgressions—a vivid depiction of the pain He faced on our behalf. The chastisement that brought us peace was laid upon Him, proving the weighty price He paid for our well-being.

He was deeply familiar with grief, embodying the essence of a Man of many sorrows. Despite His immense suffering, we failed to recognize His dignity, reducing Him to disgrace. In our lives, we often fixate on superficial concerns such as beauty, our appearance, and the opinions of others. Yet, in stark contrast, nothing about Him attracted us—no outward beauty to draw attention.

In silence, He bore this injustice; He did not defend Himself or protest. Instead, He willingly offered Himself as a sacrifice. As we reflect on His endurance through such trials, we are reminded of the strength it takes to endure hardship with grace and determination. Now, let’s explore the meaning of faithful endurance.

2 Timothy 2:3 KJV: “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Suffer hardship with me , as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Join me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”

Rejoicing in our suffering produces endurance; endurance produces character, and character produces hope. (Romans 5:3-4) Production is a process. Our character is built through every hardship we encounter. God is the Potter stretching, pressing, thronging, and there’s tremendous pressure.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 KJV) By the leading of the Holy Ghost, I searched out this scripture. The crown of life isn’t referred to as eternity. The Greek translation for the crown in this verse means to mark. Paul said, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14 KJV)

Press into completion. What awaits us at the end of every trial is far more rewarding than any perishable award.  (1 Corinthians 9:24-25) Paul asked the early Christians, “Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?” Refuse any hindrances, whether it’s people, places, or things. It’s not a race to compete with one another. It’s about reaching the pinnacle of His glory, steps higher. Run well, with grace, love, and fervency!

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated.

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