One of my treasured childhood memories is my time in the Cadet Corps. This was an elementary form of the military that emphasized discipline, civic pride, and toughness. Despite the various weekly exercises we engaged in, such as physical training, combat exercises, and ceremonial and precision drills, the common objective was to instill in us a high level of discipline and toughness that would serve us well in the future.
Some of the grueling exercises included doing dozens of push-ups on the hot pavement, running for miles in rain or heat while carrying a heavy backpack and rifle, or spending nights out in the field with ration packs as your main meal and the ground as your mattress.
As much as these activities were not necessarily fun, and certainly not easy, we did not want to give up and quit. Our mindset was to endure and make it through whatever was thrown at us. Ultimately, the goal was to leave with a sense of pride and accomplishment, not only for making it through, but for doing so with flying colors.
Living a life of service to God should never be expected to be a life of constant ease and comfort. Jesus said to his disciples in John 16:33, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” This is stated as certainty, not a possibility.
Yet Jesus wanted his followers to have peace despite this seemingly grim reality. But how does one have peace in this scenario?
Paul provided the answers as he prepared his mentee, Timothy, for the hardships to come. In 2 Timothy 2:1-12, he encouraged him to do four things that we should do as well:
- Set Expectations. The job is that of a soldier. Things will not always be easy. A soldier should expect to go through hardship. But the hardship is for good reason – to improve your ability, increase your capacity, and develop your maturity.
- Develop Endurance. The attitude required is to never give up, because endurance is the critical component for achieving the benefits and rewards that come with being a successful soldier.
- Focus on Pleasing Your Commander. When the priority is to please God, the hardship is not the focus; it is successfully pleasing the one you are striving and fighting for.
- Look Forward to the Benefits. When we keep our eyes on the prize, we have reason to stay motivated and focused amid hardship, knowing it will be worth it.
So, my encouragement to you as you face hardship during your service for God is, don’t give up. You are being tested, strengthened, and prepared for the victory that you can savor. Hang in there!