In the Amplified version of the Bible, verses 12 + 18: say, “Blessed (happy, to be envied) is the man who is patient under trial and stands up under temptation, for when he has stood the test and been approved, he will receive the (victor’s) crown of life which God has promised to those who love Him. And it was of His Own (free) will that He gave us birth (as sons) by (His) Word of Truth, so that we should be a kind of first-fruits of His creatures (a sample of what He created to be consecrated to Himself).”
In Chapter 2: 5 + 6: says, “But whoever keeps His Word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him; the one who says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same manner as He walked.” 1 Peter 4: 1: says, Therefore, since Christ (Jesus) has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the Will of God.”
Verses 12 – 14: say, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His Glory, you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the Name of Christ (Jesus) you are blessed, because the Spirit of Glory and of God rests upon you.
In the Amplified version of Hebrews 12: 2 + 3: it says, “Looking away from all that would distract to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith (giving the first incentive for our belief) and is also the Finisher (bringing it to maturity ad perfection). He for the joy (of obtaining the prize) that was set before Him, endured the Cross despising the shame, and is now seated at the right Hand of the Throne of God. Just think of Him (Jesus) Who endured from sinners such grievous opposition and bitter hostility against Himself (reckon and consider it all in comparison with your trials), so that you may not grow weary or exhausted, losing heart and relaxing and fainting in your minds.”
Hebrews 10: 36: says, “For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the Will of God, and thus receive and carry away (and enjoy to the full) what is promised.” Revelations 21: 7: says, “He who overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be His God and he will be My son.”
Dearest Holy Lord Jesus: thank You so very much for Your overwhelming overcoming Power that You have released to us by Your Holy Spirit. May He continually remind us of Your Will for us in Christ Jesus, which is to “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in all things to give thanks.” May You come and quicken all who seek Refuge in You to be strengthened and remain steadfast in the midst of their everyday encounters. Glory to You alone!
