2 Timothy 2:1-10 We must pick up the Cross of Jesus for his sake and the sake of the flock. This is our calling.

You therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit the same to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier on duty entangles himself in the affairs of life, that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier. Also, if anyone competes in athletics, he isn't crowned unless he has competed by the rules. The farmers who labor must be the first to get a share of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, of the offspring of David, according to my Good News, in which I suffer hardship to the point of chains as a criminal. But God’s word isn’t chained. Therefore I endure all things for the chosen ones’ sake, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. Since we have been chosen by God, we must labor for the Master. Our labor is not for our own sake, but for the sake of the flock, the household of God. But we know that our toil is not against men, but against dark forces of evil. Therefore we must protect the flock from all harm even if we suffer at the hands of the enemy. For whatever Christ Jesus did we must do also and daily pick up our Cross and be his representatives.