By Pastor Dennis Morales
"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.…" 1 Corinthians 16:13
This is the final encouragement to a church from the Apostle Paul. Paul planted the Corinthian church, but the church had issues that needed addressing. The final comments to them is a calling to "stand fast." This is actually a military term meaning to "hold your position" or "to refuse to be defeated." There is to be no retreat. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to remain strong in the faith because opposition will come. Trials will ensue. Are you going through a time of drought? Are you going through a time of discouragement? Paul says, "stand firm and be brave." I believe we need to share this encouragement all the more today. I am reminded how "Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself." This Scripture says God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:8-9). Under Babylonian rule, Daniel turned his back on the luxuries of the king's court because eating defiled food would have been a compromise of his faith. God honored Daniel's stand and he earned the respect of the chief of the eunuchs, because Daniel's courage impressed him. Daniel stood for God and was strong. He didn't seek man's approval, but God's will. If we allow ourselves to be dissuaded from doing anything unless we have complete approval, it almost assured we will never accomplish anything of value. Instead of being discouraged by opposition, we should take comfort in (God's faithfulness) and keep on doing what is right. Whatever you find yourself up against today, remember that "one," with God, is the majority. "If God is for "you" who can stand against you (Romans 8:31). He sees what you don't see. Faith is trusting and believing God. God does the impossible (Matthew 19:26).
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / @ Eastvale Elementary 13031 Orange St, Eastvale (calvaryeastvale.org).
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