But the one who endures to the end will be saved. – Matthew 24:13
Winston Churchill called it the greatest American battle of the war—the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes region of Belgium. It turned out to be Hitler’s last major offensive against the Western Front in World War II. Hitler’s aim was to split the Allies in their drive toward Germany. American soldiers were outnumbered; they lacked ammunition, food, medical supplies, and cold-weather gear. Their situation was compounded by the worst December weather in recorded history, impacting not only human survival but making the resupplying of troops or providing them with tactical air support nearly impossible.
The battle was costly. America suffered over 100,000 casualties. The formerly serene wooded Ardennes forest was hacked into chaos as U.S. troops dug in against the German advance. Heroes at that battle were the 101st Airborne Division and General George Patton’s Third Army. They showed up and held on. They endured, victorious in the battle that ended a month later. In less than five months, Germany surrendered.
Over the last two thousand years, Christians have been forced to endure battles. For some in today’s America, it is health or financial, for others it may be family issues. Globally, in this century alone, many have been murdered, forced into slavery, and made to endure unimaginable, excruciating hardships.
In the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24 and 25) and elsewhere, Jesus warns that the road ahead doesn’t come with a cushy ride. He made it crystal clear that hard times will come. But His promise is clear for those who endure. Look to Jesus. Look to the examples of the Apostles and early church fathers. Look to those brothers and sisters suffering under the hands of brutal dictators or radical terrorists. Ultimate victory is at hand; God triumphs! “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12).
Whatever battle you are facing, persevere.
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