Preparing to Stand Firm

We may not realize to what extent, but a lot of our time each week is spent in preparation for the future. Going to work to obtain money for future expenses, sleeping so we are rested for the next day, grocery shopping so we have food to eat for the following days, or maybe even going to school so we can have a good job in the future.

But how much time do you spend preparing to stand firm in your faith?

God's Word stands firm; It is unchanging and settled in Heaven. We too should stand firm on His Word - not being swayed by false teaching, traditions of man, temptations in this world, or filled with doubt through Satan's attacks.

In the examples of people like Peter and John, we should pray for BOLDNESS. Peter and John were prepared to stand firm in their faith.

As Peter and John were put in jail for healing a man, they were later questioned by the rulers, elders, scribes, and the high priest. The Bible says: "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:14 NKJV emphasis added).

After Peter and John were released, they gathered with others and prayed, "Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with boldness they may speak Your word..." (Acts 4:29).

How much time have you spent with Jesus lately, and how much time have you spent praying for boldness in preparation for the future?

Paul says, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong" (1 Cor. 16:13 NIV).

Being on guard means being prepared. Don't be caught off-guard. Pray for boldness ahead of time, and spend time in God's Word each day. Be prepared to speak God's Word boldly, and use His Word to defend yourself against the attacks of Satan.

To be prepared and on guard, standing firm in your faith, you must have God's Word in your heart BEFORE situations occur. Through Christ, we can and should be bold and courageous without fear of anything!