Staying strong

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:7 “So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers & sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith”

 

Observation:  Staying the course.  Running the race.  Remaining strong in the midst of trials.  Finishing well.  How important it is in the Christian life!  David exhorts Solomon to “be strong and courageous: do not be afraid or lose heart!” (1 Chronicles 22:13).  Joshua was told the same at the start of his time as leader of Israel.  Paul’s satisfaction towards the end of his life was that he had run the race well – he hadn’t dropped out.  The parable of the Sower & the various soils the seeds grow in is another illustration.  The Christian life will, without doubt, hold its difficulties, its challenges – some will even come because of faith, & not just because we are doing life in a sin-sick world.  But everywhere in the Word is the encouragement: stand firm.  Persevere.  Remain strong in your faith.  Let the seeds of faith grow strong roots deep into fertile soil.  Be strong & courageous – not of yourself, but of your faith in the Strong & Courageous One who carries you.  It is the only way!

 

Application:  What causes me to lose heart?  To stumble in my faith walk?  To feel that being “strong & courageous” is beyond me?  It’s believing the lies of the enemy of my soul who tells me it’s all too hard – but my Lord says “Be strong & courageous in Me”  “Allow My strength to rise up when you are weak”  Courage & perseverance in the midst of trials doesn’t mean pretending the trials don’t matter or don’t exist.  But it does mean growing my roots deeper into Him and hanging on that much tighter!!  Hanging on to faith in Christ is the only way to really survive –to more than survive – to live the abundant life – in the midst- that Jesus promised me!!

 

Prayer:  Dear Lord, forgive me for those times I have been on the verge of losing heart & giving up – on people, situations, & faith!!  May I remember that You exhort me to be strong & courageous, especially in the midst of trials – because You are and You live in me!!!  May this be one of Your marks on my life.   

 

Sue Otto