BOOT READY


 Image result for Clip art of standing firmly







I wonder, where have we gotten the attitude that to be a Christ follower is a life of ease with no tests, trials, or warring challenges? I cannot imagine why "Onward Christian Soldiers" was written and sung if the hymn was not pertinent to the walk of faith!  As I read the books of Acts and 1 Corinthians, I find that Paul, an ardent Christ follower was constantly "under the gun".  He did not seem to lose his focus even with the "bullets flying" at him and around him. For my heart and mind, he is a supra-hero for sure.  In jail, out of jail, being run of of town, being misunderstood, being stoned by "religious" peoples, or by beatings...He remained faithful to the Lord God. 

In 1 Corinthians 16, among his personal requests to the church at Corinth, he encourages:  "Be on guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.  Do everything in love."  Paul seems to be reminding us to keep our boots ready to put on for holding our ground.  We are living in perilous times and the Holy Restrainer is holding back the return of Christ it seems, so that many more will hear the Truth of the gospel and be saved for eternal life. (2 Thessalonians 2:5-6)

I encourage Christ followers to check out personal stance in the faith.  The foundation that we have been given in the Word of God is well sufficient for these times. It is not subject to human opinion or cultural mores.  Psalm 119:89, "Your Word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens."  Regardless of the blowing winds of change, if they are not in alignment with the Word of God, they will just blow and toss about. You and I must decide if we are going to give ground or will we have our hearts and minds firmly planted in the faith aligning with the Word of God?   It is our desire to stand firmly, be courageous and strong, doing everything in love.  Forever learning.  In process.  #IHAVETHREESONS

 







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