His Holiness Pope Shenouda spoke about endurance (steadfastness) as a Christian virtue rooted in the love of God and firm faith, and he called believers to remain steadfast both in affliction and in rest.

Meaning of endurance and its biblical symbols

He linked endurance to the depth of love and strength of heart, citing biblical models: Job who endured affliction and was raised up better, the house built on the rock, the palm tree that endures drought and cold, and Paul’s verses urging fruitfulness in the Lord’s work.

Endurance in facing trials and heresies

He mentioned examples from faith life: Daniel in the lion’s den, the three youths in the furnace of fire, Elijah confronting the prophets of Baal, Joseph the righteous in his steadfastness, and the apostles’ witness and Christianity’s endurance against Roman persecutions and heretical errors.

Causes of endurance and its components

He affirmed that the causes of endurance are the depth of love for God, depth of faith, and strength of heart, and that the believer who loves cannot be separated from Christ’s love by circumstances or powers, relying on God’s promises, mercy, and faithfulness to His word.

Endurance in affliction and in rest

He noted that endurance is required not only in afflictions but also in times of rest; in affliction prayer, fasting, and drawing near to God increase, and in rest we must remain steadfast and approach God out of love, not merely seeking deliverance.

Interpretation of delayed response and testing of faith

He explained that God’s delayed salvation or response may sometimes test our faith and love, reminding of the patience of the prophets and of Christians who considered reproach for Christ an honor.

Practical exhortation to believers

Pope Shenouda urged believers to cling to God’s promises, to build themselves spiritually through knowledge, prayer, and experience, and to rely on Christ’s promise “I am with you always,” praying for steadfastness for all and for the church’s children.

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