“STAND FAST IN THE FAITH” was a frequent encouragement of the apostle Paul. He told the Galatians to “STAND FAST” in their spiritual freedom in Christ, for freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and DO NOT submit again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
He urged the Philippians to “stand firm in one spirit” as they live a life worthy of the gospel, “…conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear about you that you are STANDING FIRM in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and this too, from God.” (Philippians 1:27-28)
And to the believers in Corinth, Paul exhorted, “Watch, STAND FAST in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)
This seems to be Paul’s mantra, compelling believers to dig in their heels and remain consistent as they face hardship, danger, persecution, and conflict. Paul calls fellow believers, “… my dear brothers and sisters, STAND FIRM in the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work.” (Philippians 4:1) By the way, Stand Firm is stēkō: in the Greek language which means, to persevere, to persist. We must continually OBEY GOD’S WORD and make sure we diligently LIVE BY GOD’S WORD.
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham