Serving our Father God and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Holy Spirit filled ministry since 1997!
Serving our Father God and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Holy Spirit filled ministry since 1997!
Ephesians 6:13
The command to stand in Ephesians 6:13 refers to remaining firm, resolute, and unyielding in spiritual opposition. It also means to be strong, alert, and unwilling to retreat or give up. The apostle Paul urges believers to "stand firm" in spiritual warfare. This admonition is a reminder of the importance of staying rooted in our faith and not being swayed by the challenges and temptations of the world. Warren Wiersbe is quoted as saying, “The Christian life is not a playground, it’s a battleground.” We are soldiers in God’s army, so we must always be prepared for battle since we don’t know when an attack will be launched.
To stand is not simply a matter of physical posture, but a posture of the heart and mind. We must have a made-up mind to stand! To stand firm is to hold fast to our beliefs, remain steadfast in adversity, and resist the enemy's schemes. Paul emphasizes the need for believers to put on the whole armor of God to stand firm in spiritual battle. The armor of God includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit, and the shoes of the gospel of peace. By putting on this armor, we are dressed for battle.
Standing firm also requires us to be vigilant. We must be watchful for the enemy's attacks and ready to defend ourselves with the Word of God. This demands a deep knowledge of Scripture and a reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. Are you equipped and dressed for battle? Stay vigilant, for the enemy is always on the prowl, and we must be ready to defend our faith.
Standing also requires Christians to stand for what is right and true, even when difficult or unpopular. It calls for perseverance and courage, displaying unwavering faith in God's promises. As we stand firm in our faith, we can be confident that God will fight on our behalf and grant us victory over the forces of evil.
Ephesians 6:13 reminds us of the spiritual warfare that believers face and the need to remain firm in our faith. By putting on the full armor of God, staying vigilant, and relying on the strength of the Holy Spirit, we can stand strong in the face of adversity and experience the victory that comes from standing firm in the truth of God's Word.
Having done all to stand, keep on standing!
Elder Shirley Freeman