Standing Firm in the Faith

This past Sunday’s message was from 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. Our pastor delved deeply into the issues that the Corinthians were facing at the time of this epistle. Although that was nearly two thousand years ago, the struggles they faced are no different than the ones we face now. We are bombarded every day with alternate teachings of so-called Christianity, as well as ideologies that while contrary to God’s Word, whisper to something in our human flesh.  That whisper always appeals to our natural desire for control.  Control over our approach to God, our desire to set the terms and work our way to His approval and our own happiness.   To erect an agenda we think will work better for us than what God has temporarily allowed.  In a sense, our Ishmael plan.   This was the root of Adam’s failure in the Garden: dissatisfaction with God’s methods. 

But core to the message was being watchful, in the active present tense. As in, being aware that our struggles are not really with each other, but with the unseen spiritual world. The devil is active in the affairs of humans, make no mistake. It’s no coincidence that today’s “Verse of the Day” is Ephesians 6:11-13:

11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Lately, after a bout with a cold, the pressures of helping care for older family members, and the inability to sleep well, my strength is low and my mind feels depressed. I struggle with motivation and purpose. Yesterday’s message was a timely reminder that I can rest easy with God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I can truly wear God’s armor and not only be protected from the pressures and temptations of the world, but I can be strong and stand against them.

I continue to be amazed at God’s goodness and love for each of us. His timing is always perfect. I am grateful to be counted as one of His Own.

Blessings,

Sally