STAND FIRM IN FAITH

In his letter to the Corinthian church, Paul the Apostle addressed the details of some matters, as well as his travel plans. In the process, He gave them some vital instructions concerning their faith walk.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 16:13 English Standard Version (ESV) "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong."

Paul told the Corinthians to be watchful, and to stay on their guard, along with the instruction to stand firm in the faith. In life, we all experience diverse seasons. Some are quite wonderful. Some are very challenging. We also go through mountain-top experiences and through demanding situations that test our faith. But in all, we must learn how to deal with these phases of experiences in various seasons of our lives so we can stand firm in the faith, come what may.

Ephesians 6:11 (NASB) says, "Put on the full armour of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." To stand firm in faith, we have to be deliberate about using the full armour of God. That's how to get in the flow with God's way of doing things. In fact these tools are designed to fortify any Christian to stand firm in faith against the devil's schemes, especially in challenging times. We must place our faith actively in God by spending time to know Him through our Bible study times, through prayer and through fellowshipping with the Holy Spirit. Indulging in these activities helps us to take our focus off the circumstances and stay focused on God.

Paul also told the church in Corinth to act like men, which is to "be men of courage" and to be strong. He made it clear that their faith in Christ will face opposition from all angles. However, they must be resolved to remain in their faith with strength and courage. To be resolved is to firmly determine to do something. If we are not determined to stand firm, we will struggle with our faith, and Satan will whisper in our ears, thoughts that are contrary to God's Word. But we have to choose to cast down those thoughts with faith-filled words (see 2 Corinthians 10:5).

Every Christian is called to use the tool of the Word given to us by God to survive the whispers and attacks of the devil. Thankfully, no challenge, attack or contrary situation is any match for the power available through faith in God's Word. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 (KJV) reads, "Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle." If we keep a firm grip on the teachings we receive from God's Word and stay positive with uplifting messages and encouraging declarations, when our faith is challenged, it will stand firm on the Word because God's Word is a firm place to stand.

But when we don't give the Word a chance, it is possible to slip back from a position of God's love for us, as well as our love for God, and His Word. If you are still struggling to focus on God because of trials, tribulations, or temptations, let me encourage you to give God's voice a chance through His Word. God is always speaking to us; I mean - always! And His voice can lead us out of any miry place of doubt and confusion and give us a firm place to stand in faith. Therefore open your heart to His Word today and always, so you can confidently stand firm in faith. Praise God!

Scripture Reading - 1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 6:13; 1 Corinthians 16:13; 1 Peter 5:9; Philippians 4:1.

Guided Prayer Dear Father in heaven, I thank you for the blessings and benefits of faith in your Word which you've prepared for those who love you. I believe in the power of your Word because it grants me supernatural wisdom and victorious mindset in every situation. As I meditate daily on your Word, I become the oak of righteousness, deeply grounded on a firm foundation for the display of your splendour. By the virtue of standing firm in faith, I'm infused with divine energy to live triumphantly above all circumstances, in Jesus' Name, Amen!