He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 2 Thessalonians 2:14-15
Meditation: The problems of pain, hurt, injury, disaster, illness, and the sin of others have plagued mankind since the beginning of time. Jesus told His disciples that the world would hate them and that they would experience trials and tribulations in life. These are not the Biblical promises we want to claim, but their existence has been seen throughout history and will continue until Christ returns again. People will deny the existence of disease or problems, attempt to have enough faith to make them disappear, blame them on sin, God or other people, or just accept their fate. God’s Word says that His children need to trust Him and stand firm through anything that might come at them.
Christians are called by God and by His grace and mercy will share in Christ’s glory. We have God’s promise that in the end we will have eternal life with Him. Because of this promise, the Lord wants us to stand firm and hold to the teachings passed on to us through the Lord’s servants. Standing firm means to abide, continue, to be stationary, or to persevere. Some translations use steadfast in place of stand firm. Both terms tells that we are to resolutely remain immovable through life; no matter what comes our way. Can we do this on our own power? Absolutely not! But God will empower us to face the trials and tribulations that will come in our life. We stand firm in Christ Jesus and remain focused on Him when we face uncertainty or troubles. Natural disasters, death, illness and problems in life will come in this fallen world. God will make a way through all of it when we stand firm in Jesus Christ.
Challenge: Do you stand firm in Christ through the trials and tribulations you face? Do you give your fear to the Lord and ask Him to give you the faith to trust Him through those problems? Stand firm in Christ and remain true to His Word.
Thought for the Day: Lord, help me to trust in You and put my faith in You that I might stand firm in You no matter what happens in my life.
Chris Garner
Used by permission – Fortified Marriages.