Enduring Suffering And Affliction

“But remember the former days when you endured a harsh conflict of suffering after you were enlightened. At times you were publicly exposed to abuse and afflictions, and at other times you came to share with others who were treated in that way. For in fact you shared the sufferings of those in prison, and you accepted the confiscation of your belongings with joy, because you knew that you certainly had a better and lasting possession. So do not throw away your confidence, because it has great reward. For you need endurance in order to do God’s will and so receive what is promised. For just a little longer and he who is coming will arrive and not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith, and if he shrinks back, I take no pleasure in him. But we are not among those who shrink back and thus perish, but are among those who have faith and preserve their souls.” Hebrews 10:32-39 NET

In this passage, the writer passionately invites the Hebrews to revisit their memories of the suffering they endured when they first embraced Christianity. It evokes powerful recollections of public shame, where they faced hostility, abuse, and affliction. Those memories are reminders of standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow believers, bravely sharing in their trials to demonstrate unwavering support for those who were persecuted.

The writer powerfully reflects on their time in prison for the sake of Christ, where they devoted themselves to uplifting others facing the same hardships. When the Romans and the temple guards seized their personal belongings, they remained unshaken. Instead, a profound joy filled their hearts, grounded in the unwavering certainty that they held a treasure far more valuable and eternal in Christ Jesus—a hope that shines brightly and never fades away.

It is vital to reflect on where we come from, particularly when the hard-won victories we celebrate are rooted in profound suffering. We must resist the temptation to take prideful advantage of our current peace, even if it feels fleeting. Instead, let us embrace each moment with humility, fully aware that none of us are promised tomorrow. We are merely temporary residents of this world; our true home lies in a heavenly kingdom that awaits us, a place of eternal hope and belonging.

Suffering serves as a powerful catalyst for balance in our lives, fostering resilience and wisdom that we may struggle to comprehend fully. It is often through our most challenging experiences that we discover true equilibrium, and even during times of delayed gratification, we can anticipate joy as our ultimate reward. The book of James boldly encourages us to embrace trials and tribulations as opportunities for joy, reminding us that these tests of our faith—our steadfast belief in God's plan—forge endurance within us. This endurance, birthed from unwavering faith, is a testament to the profound strength that comes from trusting in God's divine purpose. We must allow this process of testing to be fully realized within us, ensuring that we are complete and lacking nothing good. In doing so, we become living evidence of God's perfect will and purpose in our lives, ultimately leading us to a deeper and more fulfilling knowledge of Him.

The writer passionately urges the Hebrews to hold firm to their confidence, reminding them that no temporary trial should ever weaken their faith in Christ. An extraordinary reward, far beyond their wildest imagination, awaits those who persevere. We must also cultivate endurance to navigate God's will, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. By steadfastly remaining faithful to Jesus and embracing the lessons that suffering brings, we will ultimately receive the incredible promises we have been given.

In the early days of the Church, many believers were convinced that Jesus would return in their lifetime to establish His earthly kingdom. Yet, they underestimated the expansive mission of the Great Commission—the call to redeem the gentile world for Christ. Today, the Great Commission is more vibrant than ever, as it actively draws countless souls into God’s kingdom. While the anticipation of Jesus' return is crucial, it is God's profound desire to gather His family back home that truly drives His heart for His people. The urgency of this mission compels us to engage wholeheartedly in bringing others into His grace.

Even today, we eagerly anticipate His return: "for just a little longer, and He who is coming will arrive and not delay." Jesus made it clear that no one knows the exact day or hour of the Lord’s return; only the Father in heaven holds that knowledge. What must take priority is the Great Commission.

Jesus carefully illustrated the wedding feast as a gathering that welcomes even those who were not initially invited. This powerful message of inclusivity challenges us, reminding us that many will be compelled to come and rejoice with the Bridegroom at His wedding. The time for culmination is fast approaching, and the feast is almost upon us. Yet, there is still ample room for others to join in and embrace this inclusive faith. We still need to share this invitation far and wide!

The writer encourages us all to embrace patient perseverance, firmly rooted in our faith and relationship with the Father through Jesus. We draw strength from the promises of God, and especially from those who steadfastly maintain their beliefs. When challenges arise, we refuse to be shaken or abandon our faith; instead, we remain focused on our ultimate prize: Jesus. He is our strength and motivation to stay resolute and deeply grounded in our faith, ensuring that we preserve our souls for the immortality that Christ promises. Our faith empowers us to overcome challenges, instilling in us a sense of confidence and strength we would have never known otherwise.

Even Jesus faced the suffering and agony of the cross with unwavering resolve, driven by the joy that lay ahead of Him. He understood the profound reality: the fleeting suffering, no matter how excruciating, was trivial compared to the glorious future He envisaged—the boundless goodness of God, far surpassing anything this world could ever provide. Jesus saw a reality where God's presence filled every corner of existence, a realm devoid of suffering, tears, pain, or illness. A place where joy prevails, brimming with eternal hope and abounding love.

Stephen Barnett