STAND UP!​

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by David G. Rose

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     One of the great accomplishments of a young child is being able to stand up without assistance. Learning to bear weight on their legs comes progressively, normally between the ages of 9 to 13 months. First, they will pull themselves up by holding on to furniture, and then they advance to standing alone. 

     Of course, there are some spiritual comparisons between the progress of a child and a Christian learning to stand on their own. The Apostle Paul was very aware of the tricks of the Devil. And he was hopeful that Christians would be spiritually mature enough to stand under the onslaught of the evil one. This requires much prayer, determined spiritual growth, and consistent preparation. 

     Paul warned Believers in Ephesians 6:11 ESV. “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” He wanted us to prevail against the enemy and to not let the evil one roll over us. Paul went on to write in Ephesians 6:13 ESV, “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.”

     The attitude of the Christian warrior must be one of Godly resolve and dedicated stability. Unless a Believer has totally committed to Christ, they will constantly be defeated by the tricks of Satan. Once a Christian has charted their course in Christ, they are less likely to wander off into sin and despair. 

     A good warrior stands ready for whatever tricks the enemy may throw at them. We must understand that living for Christ will be a battle. Conflict must be expected. The attacks will usually be sudden and at the worst possible time. Is there ever a good time for an attack? No, but sometimes our guard is down, and the enemy knows it. That is why we put on the whole armor of God. Then, we will be ready.

     A good warrior stands steady. The weakest warrior is the one who can’t decide. They live a life of equivocation and vagueness. Their testimony for Christ is constantly corrupted by silly decisions and unpredictability. Other Believers cannot trust them, and this weakens them for the fight. Paul challenged this weak warrior in 1 Corinthians 16:13 ESV – “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”

     A good warrior stands victorious. Paul wrote in Galatians 5:1 ESV – “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” We must begin every battle from the position of victory. Christ has defeated death, hell, and the grave. In Christ, we are already victorious, and He cannot be defeated. But we must stand in Christ, and not in our vain imaginations. 

     Paul inspired Believers in Philippians 4:1 ESV – “Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.” Never forget, you are more than a warrior to Christ. You are beloved of God and Christ has promised to never leave you or forsake you.                             Stand firm. Expect victory. And reach out to fellow warriors by providing them with love, strength and encouragement.

Next week: Faith 
 

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