There are so many times in our lives where we forget or refuse to stand firm in the promises of God. We face adversity and forget that God always comes through on His promises to provide for His people. We suffer hardship and forget that God come near and comforts His people.
Paul writes some great words of encouragement for those who struggle to stand firm in the promises of God. He writes to the Ephesians 6:10-11, 13,
“…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… 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.”
Notice what Paul encourages Christians to stand firm and be strong in. “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might… take up the whole armor of God.” Christians stand firm in the face of adversity because of God’s strength. Christians are invited to put on His armor. To trust that God will fight for and provide for them.
It can be very tempting to read Ephesians 6:10-20 and think, “I need to stand firm.” Paul uses strong phrases that we usually associate with our doing. “Stand firm,” “take up,” “put on,” are all used multiple times in these verses. Standing is cooperative – but our part to play is so small! We stand firm only because we wear God’s armor, putting on His belt of truth, His breastplate of righteousness, His shoes of the gospel, His shield of faith, His helmet of salvation, and wielding His sword of the Spirit.
In fact, Paul ends the section by exhorting – strongly encouraging – believers to be “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication… making supplication for all the saints… (Eph. 6:18).” Paul encourages believers to return to their first position, sitting. To spend time in prayer, in conversation, with God. He also encourages them to continue to pray to God as they stand in and with Him, dressed in His armor.
When you face hardship, struggles, and adversity – when you need to endure – sit with God. Pray to Him. Ask for His truth to be revealed. Ask for His righteousness. Ask for the Gospel to be shared with you. Ask that He strengthen you to trust in Him.
When you stand your ground, continue praying to Him. Pray that He sees you through. That He fulfill all His promises for you. That He save you like He did the Sons of Israel from Egypt and all His people from their sin. That He fights for you. Stand firm and take heart in the strength of the Lord who fights for and provides for you.
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for fighting and providing for me. Give me the strength to stand firm in Your promises when I face adversity and hardship in this life. When I get weak and tired, help me sit in Your Word and promises. Help me cry out to You in prayer, trusting that You clothe me in Your armor. Remind me that You see Your people through to the very end. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
0 Comments