Stand Firm
What if what you pray for, long for, and hope for will only come through dark valleys? James tells us to consider it all joy when we encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces endurance. Let endurance have its perfect result, so you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4
Will you abandon the cause, relinquish the fight, or turn away? Jesus said, blessed are those who don’t take offense at Him, who are not hindered from seeing the truth. We are given a living hope, reserved in heaven, protected by God’s power. We can rejoice even during trials, knowing that the testing of our faith results in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Matthew 11:6, 1 Peter 1:3-7
Hard times are never wasted, and the things removed from our lives are never without cause or purpose. Because every branch in Jesus that bears fruit, He prunes it so it can bear more fruit. John 15:2
God’s path is often difficult beyond imagination because the easiest way is often not the best way. We need to remember to enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and broad that leads to destruction. Matthew 7:13
Your hearts desires (the desires for your loved ones), the deepest longings for fulfillment are only achieved through following God’s path. Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. For He knows the plans He has for you, plans for welfare not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Psalm 37:4, Jeremiah 29:11
The way is narrow and dark, but The Light of the world will always light The Way. Jesus said, ‘I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.’ John 8:12
Stand firm on God’s truth. Be on alert, stand firm in the faith, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
Stand firm regardless of what life or the enemy throws your way. Put on the full armor of God, so you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil, and having done everything, stand firm. Stand firm, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness. Ephesians 6:11-14
Stand firm to the end. For in the end, it will be worth it all.
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears and listens to and heeds My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will eat with him, and he will eat with Me. He who overcomes (is victorious), I will grant him to sit beside Me on My throne, as I Myself overcame (was victorious) and sat down beside My Father on His throne.” ~ Revelation 3:20-21 (AMPC)
From Living Joyfully Free Devotional (Volume 2), by Lisa Buffaloe http://amzn.to/2b78ymt
