Verse of the Day 2/18

 

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. ¹⁴ Let all that you do be done in love. English Standard Version (ESV)

 

Much of the southeastern US has been hit with a combination of rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow in the last couple of days followed by sub-freezing temperatures.  People have been asked not to venture out if they don't need to for fear of accidents on the roads and slips and falls along sidewalks and parking lots.  With all of the ice and the thawing and  refreezing it is hard to maintain a firm footing when out and about, it is very easy to slip and fall.

 

Football players have been known to carry different length cleats depending on what the field conditions are on any given Sunday.  They'll have the extras on hand should field conditions change.  An offensive lineman without cleats wouldn't stand a chance against on oncoming defensive lineman who was properly equipped.  The cleats dig into the turf and give leverage against the opponent.

 

If we are to take our stand, to have firm footing to our faith, to stand against what the opposition is throwing at us, we need to have a firm foundation, firm footing in the Word of God, and apply it in our lives.  Not applying His Word would be like the football player who has the proper cleats but doesn't bother to put them on.

 

Max Lucado writes, "God wants us to stand against sin.  Sometimes we must do it all by ourselves, but it is always easier to stand with others.  But if you must go it alone, remember that you have been saved by Him  and that He is all you need."

 

May we be watchful and alert as we stand amidst changing conditions with others in the faith, but if we're in situations where we must go it alone, lets be prepared to stand, with a firm footing and do it in love.

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

 

1 Corinthians 16:12-14The Message (MSG)

¹² About our friend Apollos, I've done my best to get him to pay you a visit, but haven't talked him into it yet. He doesn't think this is the right time. But there will be a "right time."

^13-14 Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you've got, be resolute, and love without stopping.