1 Corinthians 16:13
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
‘Watch who you hang out with, where you go and who you trust,’ instructed the father to his daughter before she moved to another city for further studies. This father expected his daughter to take this simple warning seriously…for he knew that harm is always lurking around the corner in the form of a blind date, a drive on a lonely road or deceptive words. It’s not like the concerned father didn’t want his daughter to have friends or fun but he wanted her to be wise and alert.
In the same way, Paul cautions us to be mindful of who we surround ourselves with and understand their agenda, for not all those who call themselves as friends would celebrate your blessings and prosperity. When our guard slips, we are bound to feel cheated, hurt, let down, wronged, dejected or disappointed. But we ought to turn to the Lord and stand firm in our faith. Fight the doubts that enter our minds with faith. Seek the Word and stand firm on what the Lord speaks to you through His promises. Stay brave and strong. In this world you will have many troubles, but “take heart, be of good cheer” says your Lord. Even when you have to defend your faith or yourself, let all that you do be done in love.
May the Lord Jesus grant you the wisdom to be prudent in all your decisions, a strong foundation in His Word so your faith is well rooted and the spirit of love, power and a sound mind so that you radiate Christ in all your thoughts, words and deeds. In Jesus’ Name!
