A wonderful morning to you my dear reader and welcome to our daily devotional. Still in the spirit of the year newness, I prophecy that all old glory and promotions be replaced by new ones in Jesus name. Amen.
We’re still on the same verse of the scripture 1 Corinthians 16:13 which reads;
“watch ye, stand fast in faith and be strong”
Yesterday, we looked at “watch ye”, today we shall proceed to “stand fast in the faith”. This is an important message to the corinthians in the days of old as well as to you in this recent times..
The statement emphasizes a number of things thats worth our careful attention and consideration. Its a way of saying, hold on to the teachings and doctrines we have given you as well as saying stand for it and be proud of it anywhere you might find yourself. It also silently says, uphold the faith and do not let it be forgotten in your own time.
To properly understand the statement, we’ll need to look at in some ways;
* This statement means that we should take conscious and serious effort to grow in the faith because its the children that can be tossed around (Ephesians 4:14). In other words, strive to learn more, it is only through that, that you can be more rooted in the faith.
*Please note that there times of affliction, your affliction should not make you abandon the faith. Jesus already told us that (Matthew 11:30) His yoke is easy and the burden is light, He didnt say there is no yoke to bear nor a burden to carry. Take note of your afflictions, they open doors of testimony.
* Furthermore, it means to abide in the work of God as 1 Corinthians 15:58 puts it. The list of the work of God where in you ought to abide can be understood by meditating on Galatians 5:19-24.
* Also, it means to know what you have received and safeguarding it till the very end (2 Peter 3:17). Dont allow the wave of wrong teaching carry you here and there.
Finally, it means you need to stand for the faith irrespective of whether the situation is good/bad or spiritual elders are there or not (Philipians 1:27). Strive for the continuity of Gospel. Dont allow yourself to be the last christian.
Can you just take a moment to assess yourself, which of the ways have you been falling? Its time to stand fast in the faith. Just pray that stamina may be given you from above to stand for and in the faith. As you ask, may you be richly blessed in Jesus name.
Adeyemi Bello 