ENDURANCE AND ENCOURAGEMENT

 

Romans 15:5-6  May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV)
 

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You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages

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Endurance is our ability to keep going despite hardship, suffering and opposition. But where does it come from? Paul wrote to Christians in Rome telling them that it is God who gives believers the ability to endure. Our Heavenly Father encourages His children to follow Jesus Christ together; and enables them to be united in the reason for our existence - glorifying Him.

Everyone who follows Jesus is unique and different from each other. Yet, in following Him we have chosen to set aside our individual priorities and accept His priorities so that we can work together with a common purpose, a united spirit and a God-glorifying purpose. His intention is not only that we will live in a godly way but also that we will encourage each other to witness verbally about what Christ has done for us.
 
Christians in the workplace may come from different towns, cultures and churches; but they are united in Christ Jesus. Therefore they should encourage each other in the Lord: to keep going in difficulty, to endure injustice and persecution and to be very positive about Jesus. Strangely, often the people who are most negative about us are also the ones who are most fascinated to understand 'what makes us tick'. Even though they speak against Christ and His people, they most need (and often want) to understand the gospel. So why not find another believer in your workplace, pray with them and see how Jesus may be glorified through you as others come to understand how much He loves them too.

Prayer:  Dear Lord. Thank You that You are my Master, and the Master of all who trust in Jesus. Thank You for not leaving me isolated, but for giving me brothers and sisters where I live and work. I am sorry when I have disappointed You by struggling on alone. Please help me to know how best to work with those around me in such a way that You will be glorified and I will be encouraged to endure. In Jesus' Name. Amen.