I am highlighting one aspect of discipleship that the Apostle mentions in response to what he has heard about the Colossians who need to know they are indeed true disciples. Here is the 4th: “…being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience” (Colossians 1 v 11)
I sat with one of my ministers the other day, he’s a friend and he’s struggling.
I heard this week of some ministers who were thinking of quitting the ministry altogether. They cannot continue. They can but they don’t want to.
I had emails this week from ministers who reported how people had chosen a different church during this pandemic season.
The Covid pandemic has battered many people whether in the pulpit or the pew. In fact the pews are now being opened and the familiar are not there. Will they be back? Time will tell.
In every sector of society people are questioning their positions. What do they want for the rest of their lives?
I think there may be some in the Church who went into the pandemic wilderness who may not come out of it. There will be a drop-off rate not just a transfer. Not everyone survives the wilderness.
As a disciple Jesus may be still asking the question, “Do you want to leave as well?” as he did of the Twelve when the other disciples left him.
Today, ask Jesus to strengthen you with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience. Do not give up.
The inner battles within that are conquered are often greater victories than some public display of success. What good would it be to have a cabinet of the trophies of life but have a character that is broken? I know of a man who on the outside is seen to be a rising star but cannot get through life without seeing a counsellor for the overwhelming fear within. People never just give up. They gave up behind the smiles and laughter a long time ago. No matter how resilient you are if you are not continually being empowered by Christ then you will fade.
The word endurance is the English translation of Hupomone. This Greek word the Apostle uses doesn’t mean to ‘pull your socks up’ or to ‘keep smiling’ under duress. It is rather a conquering patience with anything that life can throw at us knowing that God will always turn even evil into good!
It is always too soon to give up because there is always God!
Missions Paul 