Stand Firm In Christ
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
A little disclaimer, at the time of this writing, I'm fired up, so if I seem impassioned, the Spirit has me going! With that being said, Christians, we have to stop letting the world dictate what and how we can feel about things, respond to things, and do about things. Right now, the world is on fire (it always is), and the world, through media, social and otherwise, dictates the terms of living. It's time to unplug from the hype, and if necessary, from the sources that keep us bound to this life! We are not citizens of this world, it is ending; we are citizens of a Kingdom Eternal, where there is no perishable substance. It's time, then to live out the Truth, to stand up, even though it's unpopular, and to be IN the world, but not OF the world. We cannot do this if we're constantly at war against the flesh and blood who are not our enemies. Instead, we have to recognize that the battle is not over physical territory, but hearts and minds. We have to take our stand, even if it costs us everything. We have to get back to the business of winning souls for Jesus Christ. Finally,be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore,having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and,as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit,with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.Ephesians 6:10-20
