Endure Hard Times, Part 2

Theme: True saving faith perseveres. The concept of endurance in the Christian life leads us to some questions about believers and their faith. Question 1: What can I expect in my Christian life? Answer: As Christians we can expect blessings as well as trials. God has promised blessings for His children. He hears those who repent and blesses them, and He listens to our requests. God provides for His children, and He has made us rich in Christ. God has also promised trials. They are purposeful in our lives and will prove our faith is genuine. As we go through trials, we share in Christ's sufferings, and we grow in our faith through them. God has also promised eternal life to those who remain steadfast, as this shows our faith is true.
Question 2. Are Christians secure in their salvation? Is there a difference in the terms "eternal security" and "perseverance of the saints"? The answer to this question is yes, Christians are secure in their salvation. However there is a difference between the two terms eternal security and perseverance of the saints. God's elect are secure, but they will persevere. Salvation is a work of God and is kept by God. He guards our faith. We see this in the life of Peter. In conclusion, followers of Christ are indeed blessed and will have trials in their lives. Followers of Christ will persevere through their trials and continue to follow Christ. That is an evidence of truly following Christ--they persevere.