Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you endured in a great conflict full of suffering. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you STOOD SIDE BY SIDE with those who were so treated. You suffered along with those in prison and JOYFULLY ACCEPTED the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to PERSEVERE so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, “In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” And, “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.” But WE do not BELONG to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but TO THOSE WHO HAVE FAITH AND ARE SAVED.

I remember the sense of accomplishment I had getting my first job out of high school, then out of college. I remember the way my wife and I were all lit up around each other when we first started dating and the first few years we were married. I remember when I met the Governor of our state, and got to help promote a project for him, in raising money for college scholarships. These were highlights in my life.

Paul is reminding the early church Christians of the time when they first heard the truth about Jesus and decided to follow him. They were ON FIRE! They endured suffering and persecution and also stood side by side with others as they were persecuted for their faith. I love the picture of standing side by side with our brothers and sisters in Christ, arms linked and taking some serious spiritual ground.

Do I reach out to encourage my Christian brothers and sisters or to ask for their help? Will I lock arms with them and help them carry their burdens?

So when life gets difficult and we cannot clearly see the path ahead, we must draw closer still to our Savior, our King and our Friend, Jesus Christ. We must reach out for help and persevere.

I love the last section of this passage and it is a challenge to us each day. It’s almost like the question is posed: “What are you really made of?”. Paul states that as followers of Jesus, we are not made of a metal that deteriorates or a cloth that rips or a conscience that shrinks back. Instead we belong to those who have faith and are saved! This is so powerful for me right now. Faith conquers fear every time!

Lord, teach me to trust you and rely on the truth of your Word and your Ways. Help me to be solid in my faith, unwavering, resolute. May I stand my ground in the sinful world and be set free from the temptations of this world so I can truly live by your power, in your Spirit — and thrive!