burdens – CadreMen Press

Endure by Kirk Hunt

And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.

Endurance is the hallmark of a champion. Endurance allows you to continue on when others give up in discouragement, or fall in exhaustion. To win, you must first endure.

Athletes deliberately develop endurance in order to better excel at their sport. The strategies of coaches, teams and individual competitors always include outlasting opponents. Military leaders may call it “toughness” but that does not change the fundamental character of endurance: Staying on task after others give up or fall down.

Endurance is far more than physical stamina. A large portion of enduring is simply deciding that you will not quit. Often, athletes complain about “betrayal” by their own bodies. The mind is willing to continue, but physics or biology cannot always be denied by sheer willpower.

Men and women of God have more than willpower to call upon. God grants to those who ask, in His purpose, for endurance. His power can suspend the laws of nature. His grace can give the gift of persistence. His mercy can push back the limiting results of poor decisions or human frailty.

You can be a Gospel champion. First, decide you want to endure. Second, ask God for what you need to endure. Everything after that is logging time or miles.

Think: Endurance is not optional in the life of a Christian.

Pray: “Lord, help me to endure through your power, grace and mercy.”

This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press.

What Burdens Do You Carry? by Kirk Hunt

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2 NKJV

Smith ducked out of the party. The great celebration of his return had overwhelmed him. For the first time in months, Smith set foot inside his own workshop. Jones, and a crooked smile, sat at the workbench.

New tools hung neatly on the pegboard. Fresh materials were stacked in the bins. Three books lay on the workbench.

The mortgage book was current through the next month. A pink slip stuck out of the car payment book. A scrapbook held notes and pictures detailing Smith’s family, for every month, since his absence.

Jones leaned over and opened the secret cabinet. Smith hung his head and looked away. A new Bible and various devotional texts were stored in the hiding place.

Jones stood, his eyes locked on Smith’s. Smith looked away then tried to say something, but no words came. Jones gripped Smith in a tight embrace. Some one whispered.

The two men separated, finally. Jones made his way to the door. The noise of the party surged into the workshop, only to be quickly swallowed by silence when the door closed.

Smith selected tools and raw stock. He laid out a project. For the first time, Smith’s workshop would make something for someone, besides Smith.

Think: Real Christians step up and carry someone else’s burdens.

Pray: “Lord Jesus, help me to help others.”

This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press.