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BE FAITHFUL
FRIDAY, JULY 8
Philippians 1:27-28

2 Timothy 1:7-13

 

“Thy word is a…

light unto my path.”

 

BE FAITHFUL
 
In Philippians 1:27-28, we see three things we must do in order to be faithful Christians. First, as citizens of heaven our manner of life should be worthy of the Gospel which we believe. It has well been said that our actions speak louder than our words. The basis of a good Christian testimony is obedience. It is that which the Lord requires of His people above all else (1 Sam 15:22).
 
Second, we must stand fast in our doctrinal position. At the time of the writing of this letter to the Philippians, Paul was in prison and a great persecution was looming on the horizon. Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, challenged each believer to “stand fast” (Phil 1:27). Surely, we need such a challenge today when confusion is everywhere. Part of standing firm is to hold fast to the teachings committed to us. If we are to maintain a good testimony, we must not waver either in our standards or in our doctrinal beliefs (2 Thess 2:15).
 
Often the church is attacked in what appear to be small areas of doctrine. It would be easy to give in on these “small” matters of faith to avoid unpleasant confrontations. And there are some today who would encourage us to avoid any confrontation, even over major doctrinal matters. But the Apostle knew that compromising in any area ultimately leads to wandering from the truth. So, we are challenged to stand fast in faith (1 Cor 16:13).
 
Finally, we should never be “terrified” (Phil 1:28), that is, controlled by fear. When we live in obedience and hold fast to proper doctrines, we are encouraged by an awareness of the presence of the Lord. He is our helper and will provide all our needs, thus enabling us to meet the persecutions which come as we live for Him (Heb 13:6).
 
So let us be faithful in our manner of living, and in our doctrinal beliefs. Then we can boldly face persecution and difficulties and never be afraid to live for the Lord.
 
THOUGHT: In what three areas are we challenged to be faithful?

PRAYER: Father, truly, when Thou art for us, none can be against us.

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