Amongst Paul's final words we are told not to be ashamed of the gospel. Make no mistake, if we follow the Lord Jesus, there will be pressures and trials, forcing the roots of faith to grow deeper and stronger. In the process, we come to know the power of God in us. Are you suffering for the gospel? Suffering purifies the church and separates the wheat from the tares, revealing the flaws in our thinking, with blessings to follow. Consider your calling; know who you are in relation to God. He is making something beautiful of your life when Christ is at the center.