“Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever. So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.” Hebrews 10:32-36 NLT
“But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved.” Hebrews 10:39 NLT
Remaining Confident in Community
What would it take for us to lose our confidence in God? Public ridicule or beatings? How could you not give up? Early Christians did not give up, but they also were not alone. They were filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and had support from their community. They could endure losing everything they owned and accept it with joy because they had each other and confident faith. Few independent followers of Christ finish strong. Like those early believers, we can finish strong with confident faith and a supportive community.
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