Not Losing Heart

Paul asserted that in spite of all his trials and tribulations, he did not lose heart. This declaration is found twice in the text, serving as "bookends" of his explanation as to why he did not lose heart. First, Paul understood that we can walk by faith, knowing that God is preparing us for our ultimate restoration at His return. Second, he addressed our present desire to be all we ought to be as we wait our transformation. Third, he advanced out present hope as the foundation of our courage to press on. We are to make our aim to please Him, knowing that we must all appear before His judgment seat.