Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus–Rev. 14:12
Although not a common subject of discussion, patient endurance is a constant challenge to God’s people, and a continual theme in the New Testament. It is needed because we live in a corrupt world, amid powerful enemies, and the flesh is weak— oh so weak!
Every Christian faces tremendous challenges and is told to remain “stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord–“( 1 Cor. 15:58). Our difficulties and danger do not relieve us of our duties. The work must be carried on even under the most adverse conditions. The question is,”How?”
One of the great helps in this challenge is the example of others who have endured great hardships for Christ’ sake. Time and time again I have been motivated to greater heights by observing and reading of those who stayed steadfast in spite of great obstacles that would have halted the progress of the average person. Those dear saints are worth their weight in gold. And they are what we all ought to be.
However, nothing gives us more confidence and courage than the constant consideration of Christ Himself (Heb. 12:1-3). In Him we find the example we all should emulate. But, by looking to Him we find more than an excellent example, we receive inspiration that strengthens us beyond what anything else can do. Focus on Him infuses us with power unknown to the natural man. It is for that reason that we must not be distracted from looking to the One who is “Altogether lovely” ( S. S. 5:16), “Faithful and True”( Rev. 19:11), “called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace”(Isa. 9:6). We are to be “faithful unto death”(Rev. 2:10) and this alone makes it possible.
