Standing Firm

Jo Penn June 25, 2023 1 1

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Ephesians 6: 10-14 (NRSVA)

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness.

“Stand, O stand firm and see what the Lord can do.” John L. Bell.

In today’s reading, Paul exhorts the Ephesians four times about how they are to make a stand against evil. They are to embody their beliefs as children of God in the midst of a world where ‘the devil’s schemes’ against God are woven into everyday life circumstances, played out by individuals and institutions but the source of the attack is coming from ‘spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms’ verse 12.

In our own culture, wherever we see words and actions that celebrate lies, promote deception, and lead to darkness – we are to recognise its source, and combat it by acting differently: by speaking truth and showing the reality of God’s light and goodness. The fruit of God’s love is always to bring new life to birth, enable good relationships between people and promote generous giving of time and resources for the good of others.

Standing for and with God is only possible by believing God’s promise that: ‘he that is in you is greater than he that is in the world’ (1 John 4: 4). As you ally yourselves with Heaven, through prayer, worship, Bible reading and doing life with other believers, and look to the Light of God, then we are to stand and see what God will do. The ground that you stand on is part of God’s Kingdom.

It reminded me of the power of heaven displayed when Jesus stood in silence before the Religious leaders and then Pilate (Matthew 26:63, 27:14) during his trials. Jesus allied himself with the purposes of heaven, and ‘became obedient to death – even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place…’ (Philippians 2:8-9).

Is there any particular issue you are facing in your life where God is calling you to ‘Stand firm’ and trust God to act?

PRAYER:

Jesus,

Your life, death and resurrection has defeated the Evil One.

When I see lies, help me stand in your truth.

When I see evil, help me stand in your goodness.

When I see hatred, help me stand in your love.