Do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.

This has been one of my favorite passages of Scripture for a long time, encouraging me in moments when I needed a little extra wind in my sails. Maybe you’re there this week. If so, meditating on this passage might be just what you need. Take your time with each word and pray over, with, and through this word. See what the Spirit opens up for you.

One thing that stood out to me was the connection between confidence, reward, and promise. Even though promise is the last word here, it is what sets this process in motion. The promise leads to doing the will of God, having confidence, and the hope of reward. There are promises we have all received – grace, empowerment, eternity with the Lord, etc. – and there are also promises you have (or can) receive that are specific to you. Remember what the Lord has promised you! Remember words spoken over you, visions and dreams you have been given, deep desires of your heart for ways to serve God and people the Lord has placed on your heart. Let that remembering boost your confidence and help you endure.