Monday, 08 August 2011

Stand Firm

This week’s reading:

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labour for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved and that by God.

Philippians 1:20-28

Paul is writing to the church in Philippi. He is encouraging them to remain faithful. He uses himself as an example of how, even when under pressure, (he was in jail for his faith), Christians must stand firm in the Word.

In today's challenging world, many things compete for our attention, we, as Christians, need to find places of determination within us.

My prayer is that you will stand firm in times of trial.

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