2 Corinthians 11

So check out that list of Paul's sufferings! That's quite a distinguished list. I really don't know anyone personally who has endured that kind of suffering for the sake of the gospel. But I think we should start trying. Paul told us to follow his example as he follows Christ. When I look at Jesus and Paul, I can see the resemblance. When I look at Paul and me, not so much.

I mean I know I try, but in 2 Tim 3:12 he writes that everyone who wants to live a life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. I do want to live a life in Christ. So I want to up the ante until I'm operating at that threshold. I know it sounds stupid and reckless, but so is going back into a city that just left you for dead. So is getting lowered out of town in a basket because you've stirred stuff up so much.

So that's what I think we should shoot for. Just compare yourself to this every once in a while as a check-up. :)