RPG Adults
STAND FAST IN THE LORD
THURSDAY, JUNE 8
Philippians 4:1-3
Ephesians 4:1-6
“…so stand fast in the Lord,
my dearly beloved.”
STAND FAST IN THE LORD
Wherever there are people, there will be conflict. Why? Because we are prideful, selfish people. Though we are saved, we often give in to our old carnal selves. Peace will not come naturally, not even for Christians. This is something we must strive for in the church. Left to our own natural inclinations, conflict often ensues. Some disagreements may seem rather trivial at first, but if not addressed properly, can quickly fester and escalate to serious conflicts that would disrupt the unity and effectiveness of the church.
Many a time, the reason conflicts happen is that people stand fast on their own desires, their own pride, or their own stubborn allegiances. They are strong-willed and they refuse to capitulate. When misunderstandings or differences occur, neither side wants to back down, and so problems arise.
In Philippians 4:1, Paul called upon the church to “stand fast in the Lord.” This term “stand fast” is a command often used in a military context to call upon one to stand firm at his post, not to yield any ground amid battle. It speaks of a strong, resolute and unwavering stand. Paul had already called them to do so in Philippians 1:27, that they should “stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.” There, he echoed his desire to them, that they must ensure that they were spiritually stable in the Lord. Their loyalty and allegiance must above all be fixed upon Christ alone. They must all stand on the firm foundation of the Lord Jesus Christ, for it was Him they served, and it was Him they were fighting for!
We too must all stand fast in the Lord, and not on our own wants and wishes. When we have the same spiritual goals, it would be easy to have peace and unity. We shall realise how foolish and immature our petty squabbles are, and we shall be united in our service to the Lord. Like an effective military unit that stands its ground together, we shall be able to stand firm against the devil’s wiles and be victorious for the Lord!
THOUGHT: What would happen to an army that does not stand fast together?
PRAYER: May Thou help me always to stand fast in Thee, Father.