Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher. 2 Timothy 1:8-11
Paul admonished Timothy to suffer with him for the sake of the gospel. In doing so, he would experience something greater in appreciation for the gospel and closeness with Jesus. It would be accomplished with the help of the Holy Spirit. I think few people today are willing to suffer at all, let alone for the greatest cause ever, that of the gospel and Jesus Christ.
How about me? Am I willing and ready to suffer persecution or other difficulty for the sake of the gospel? Yes, but to this point in life my experience has been without great suffering. I have watched with great admiration those Christians who have endured much.
Lord Jesus, I am unashamed of the gospel and glad to be numbered with Your faithful followers. I am grateful for Your goodness and grace and the privilege to be appointed as a preacher and teacher of the Word of God.
