Stand Firm

These two words seem to be jumping out all over the bible for me lately. Tonight I was just reading in 2 Thessalonians and in verse 15 it says, "So then, brothers, stand firm and hold onto the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter." In my head, I picture a bunch of leaders who are going about their lives, telling others about Jesus, having lifegroups, praying for others and as they keep at it...satan creeps in and they begin to second guess themselves, start feeling isolated, begin to feel discouraged. I like how Paul says, "Stand Firm" in the word. Always go back to the basic teachings of the gospel. How refreshing it is to read God's word.

Lately, I've been dealing with a spiritual "funk" let's call it. I was definitely feeling some major opposition and it got to the point where I was feeling really confused, isolated, and discouraged. After talking to Tony, our pastor, and getting some very healing prayer, I feel like I am free from a lot of the "junk" that was following me around as well as free to really, truly read God's word in peace.

In doing so, I've been hit multiple times with this idea of "standing firm".

Moses telling the Israelites: "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring today" -Exodus 14:13

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love. -1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Referring to a believer in Christ named Epaphras, "He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured."- Colossians 4:12

Resist him (the devil), standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. - 2 Peter 5:9

I'm so encouraged as I read these verses. Jesus knew what we would face on this earth and the trials that we would bear...and yet we are still called to stand firm. That's my desire...to be able to stand firm, no matter what.

The picture I get is of our feet anchored to a rock with waves crashing over us...yet we remain standing...unshaken. I'm so glad that Jesus is the rock so that we CAN stand strong.

Lord, help me to continue to stand firm in you...to not be shaken or moved. I love you Jesus.