Stand Firm and Persevere
That almost sounds like a contradiction, doesn’t it. How can you persevere while you’re standing firm? Persevere sounds like an “action” verb, while “stand firm” sounds like inaction.
This photo captured my attention. This guy looks like he’s trying to hold it together by standing firm because one move could send him plummeting to who knows where. But, you see he has on virtual reality goggles. He’s not going to plummet. It only appears in the scene that he is visualizing. But, take off those goggles and this scripture will help him no matter what he is facing in his reality. “STAND FIRM. Be strong and immovable, always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” 1 Corinthians 15:58
Check out the words in this photo: “Your ability to STAND FIRM and endure nurtures the courage and wisdom to PERSEVERE.”
What is God wanting to get across to us? Those are double-word exhortations to us. I know God is speaking a strong message to us because no matter who we are, every one of us have challenges, circumstances, situations, and decisions to make. We are receiving a message today that gives us a step-by-step way to handle all our anxieties and concerns.
STAND FIRM — tells us to not be moving around so much. Ever been around someone who just had crazy nervous energy going on? They drum their fingers on a table or their knee is bouncing up and down like a jack hammer. They are in constant motion. Honestly, it can drive us looney just being in their presence. Someitimes I had to shut my eyes to keep from getting myself nervous, too.
“Stand firm” means “be stable,” “be steadfast.” Unmoveable, means to hold a position of “heels dug in” with bulldog tenacity. Bulldogs never quit. If they get hold of your leg, they won’t let go. They are known for their tenacious spirit. And that is how we should be known for too! Being tenacious in our faith in our unmoveable, unshakeable God. We can stand firm in our knowing He is setting things in motion for us and our future.
The next time our courage is tested to the limit, let’s remember that God is as near as our next breath, and He offers strength and comfort to His children. Whatever the challenge, God calls us to STAND FIRM as we trust in His unwavering love for us. He assures us that everything is gonna’ be alright and “in due season we will reap, if I don’t faint…..while standing firm. Father knows best and His promises are true.
I’m going to STAND, and when I’ve done all to stand….I’m going to keep on standing. I won’t give up, until I’m taken up. How about you?