“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58
It is a sad reality that our present cultural situation here in the United States is one where Biblical values are under attack. Society is putting tremendous pressure on believers to adopt and adhere to the values of the current culture.
Unfortunately, far too often, believers, pastors, and churches are bending their knees and compromising with the culture instead of taking public stands for Biblical truth. As Christians, our calling is not to compromise and embrace the values of this world, but rather our calling is to be fully devoted to Christ.
Paul’s command to the believers in Corinth many years ago is our very directive today as well, to “stand firm, to be unmovable, and to fully give ourselves to the work of the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58). The Greek phrase stand firm can also be translated into English as being “steadfast” and it implies an overwhelming devotion to something. Believers are to have an overwhelming devotion, an unwavering loyalty to Christ Himself.
Many metaphors could be employed to describe the phrase “stand firm” but one notable one is a tree taking the brunt of strong winds from a storm and remaining rooted in the ground no matter how powerful the storm slams into the tree. Christians are to remain rooted in Christ and faithful to Him no matter how strong the cultural winds blow against us. May we never compromise to appease the culture and always remember that we are called to be faithful soldiers for Christ no matter what.
LET US PRAY…
Father, empower us to “stand firm, be unmovable, and to give ourselves fully to Your work.” Lord, may Your Church in the United States be characterized by overwhelming devotion to You and Biblical truth. Father, help us to be fully devoted to You no matter the cost. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
