It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to himself.
2 Corinthians 4:13-14 NIV
Paul experienced unbelievable hardship in his service to Christ. And it is easy to wonder how he could endure so much without giving up. Or at least backing off some. But I believe that this passage can help us to understand his dedication. And encourage us to follow his example.
Paul had a confidence that was not based on his circumstances or his own ability. His confidence was based upon his great hope in God’s ability and faithfulness. Paul knew without a doubt that God had raised Jesus from the dead. And more significantly, Paul knew that God would raise him along with Jesus. And that on that day, he would stand before God and hear him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into your master’s joy” (Matt. 25:21). No matter what might happen to him in this life, nothing could take away from the joy that awaited him.
It is not just Paul who can have that confidence. The resurrection and future that he looked forward to are awaiting all who faithfully follow Jesus as Lord. So, give yourself fully to the work of the Lord, knowing that your service is not in vain (1 Cor. 15:58). Keep your eyes firmly fixed on the great hope that we have as God’s children. And don’t let anything discourage you from being faithful to the one who has called us to himself.
