Despite Difficulty

How do we persist in telling others about Jesus despite the difficulties we face in ministry? This is an uncomfortable question in our culture, which does all it can to deny pain and find happiness in everything. To some, experiencing difficulty can appear feeble or pathetic. But then, how do we see Jesus’ life? Paul begins this part of the letter by again reminding Timothy of his spiritual legacy. It is one marked by people who suffered: Jesus, Paul, and now Timothy (8).

And yet, even though Paul is currently in jail and his incarceration is painful, he makes it clear to Timothy that the gospel is not (v 9)! It is living free and still able to change lives in spite of difficulty.

But Timothy needs some practical encouragement, like we all do. And as a wise mentor, Paul is ready with some very timely words. He urges Timothy not to give up or lose heart despite his challenges by using several metaphors: a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. The soldier portrays a sense of priority. The athlete models discipline. The farmer is the pattern of perseverance.

Living as a follower of Jesus is not easy. We shouldn’t expect it to be. Just as Paul is commending Timothy to carry on in the face of his difficulty, we need to, too.

We need a renewed realization of the gospel priority to “put God’s work first and do what he wants” (Matt 6:33).

We also need to remember to live disciplined lives. Ones with boundaries and order, just like an athlete.

And, like a farmer, we need perseverance. Planting, sowing, and reaping are not easy tasks. They need diligence and endurance. In a similar way, when we encounter ministry challenges with others, we need them too.

Respond in Prayer

Father God, today I need your strength for the difficulties I face while I serve you. I desire to grow in my priorities, in discipline, and perseverance. But I can’t do any of it without you. Empower me through the Holy Spirit to remain faithful to you despite my circumstances or the way I feel. Thank You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Meg Saunders

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).