2 Corinthians 11:27; In Watchings Often

2 Corinthians 11:27 In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.

There were many instances when he needed to rest but the demands of the gospel work piles in incessantly like the waves on the seashore so that he had to endure sleeplessness to see to the completion. Sentry work requires the watcher to be on the alert lest the enemy overtakes by surprise. A sleeping guard will endanger the camp whose well-being hinges upon his skill in watching. It is especially critical during the wearisome periods of the duty when the body’s alertness is put to the ultimate test.

The gospel work is a supernatural work that comes with it a supernatural enabling when it is God’s purpose to accomplish His holy purpose. As such, the servant of God is given the assurance that the grace of God that is sufficient to the task assigned. What consolation and encouragement.

He tells us the frequent nature of such watchings. He becomes a seasoned soldier of the cross. A partaker of the blessings having endured the sufferings.

If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour (John 12:26 ). Amen.