Stand Strong AmericaSample

Take a Stand

Standing is a posture that embodies many things. We stand to be seen, we stand to show respect, and we stand up after we fall. Standing is indeed a powerful posture. And that is why Paul encouraged the Christians in his day to “stand firm in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Notice that Paul didn’t charge Christians to sit down or lie down in their faith, for that would imply an inactive or weak faith. Christians are not called to sit back and do nothing at all; rather, we are commanded by God to stand. To stand for truth and to stand for what is right. To stand and make a difference. People who stand up are those who stand for something. They are passionate pursuers to change lives that will ultimately change the world.

Paul’s message back then still applies to us today. Are you standing for Christ? Or are you just sitting around doing nothing? We live in a time when so many Christians say they are followers of Jesus, and yet these same Christians find it difficult to stand up for Christ. The Christian life is a battle. We are at war over so many things: Satan, our sinful desires, and a fallen world that opposes itself against God.

Therefore, as we seek to live out our faith, we are to always be prepared for whatever battle comes our way. Or to put it succinctly, we are to stand strong like it says in Ephesians 6:11 and 1 Peter 5:9.

You see, no matter what you are facing right now, God will give you the strength to stand in the midst of it. It’s not a crippled stand, but a stand that says, “I got this because God has me.” Let’s not kid ourselves— there are times we feel like giving up. But no matter how many times we feel like giving up, God never gives up on each one of us. No matter if you feel lonely, abandoned, frustrated, doubtful, or even hurt, God will give you the strength needed to stand in the raging storm. Things will get tough— sometimes extremely tough— but despite the trial, doubt, turmoil, or fear, there is nothing in this world that can separate you from the love of God.

God is your fortress, and it is God who is your defense. He is the Rock that you can stand on. And so whatever the challenges you face today, if your faith is rooted strongly in the Lord, then you will persist. You will keep on standing. So today— and every day for that matter— turn to the Lord for strength. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you as you apply the truths found in the Word of God and to empower you to stand strong.

To get a sample of Stand Strong America by Jason Jimenez and Alex McFarland with a Road Map to Restoring America, visit broadstreetpublishing.com/stand-strong-free-preview.