I am preaching on this verse of Scripture this Sunday. To say that the Christian life is a bed of roses is being delusional. The Christian life at times is a hard row to hoe.
The main reason that the Apostle Paul was willing to suffer (for the sake of His calling from the Lord) is that he had a strong personal relationship with the Lord. He knew that Jesus loved him, and that salvation was his, because He placed his faith in the Savior.
Paul knew whom he believed in. He was convinced that Jesus would guard what he entrusted to him (his soul) until the day when he would see Jesus face to face. It was evident that this was personal with Paul, as it should be with us.
It's not enough to just have a knowledge of Christianity. The heart of the matter, is a deep sincere personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Knowing Him as Savior, Shepherd, and friend. Is that who Jesus is to you today?
It's time to strip away all the religious thinking, and concentrate on the only true priority; and that is a lifetime relationship with the one who loved us, and gave His life up for us! GP
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