Steadfast in the Faith

“But He knows where I am going, and when He tests me, I will come out as pure gold. For I have stayed on God’s paths; I have followed His ways and not turned aside. I have not departed from His commands but have treasured and esteemed His Words more than my necessary food” (Job 23:10-12)

Welcome back dear student, trials test our endurance, our skill, and our resolve.

Job was an upright man of integrity, who feared God, and hated evil. All hell broke loose in Job’s life, yet he maintained his trust in God. The enemy taunts God’s people by attacking one’s security, identity, and all that is held dear, in an effort to get individuals, and families off God’s plans and pathway of Righteousness. We must recognise and understand what’s going on.

It’s bigger than it appears.

The enemy uses strife, pain, harassment, and afflictions; whether these are physical, mental, emotional, relational, or financial attacks - to divert our attention from God’s divine purpose and plan for our lives.

Each one of us has a particular call and anointing to accomplish great things for God in varied and unique ways. However, many don’t understand this because they are so busy fighting fires, and dealing with crisis, and past and present drama – oftentimes at the hands of others, who’ve dragged them into their loop of chaotic dysfunction. Boundaries are vital as we’ve recently studied.

But also: steadfastness - firmly deciding to not get pulled in every direction.

Seeking God’s Wisdom first before reacting to the wishes and desires of others is a must. James warns about double mindedness. He describes it as being tossed like waves of the sea by the wind and storms (James 1:2-8).

So, what’s the antidote?

Faith!

Faith carries us through the dark days, the storms of life, the pain, and loss. It’s trusting through the trial – like holding tight on a rollercoaster. Hope coupled with faith, causes us to rise again to focus on the future with renewed vision and resolve. Knowledge of the Word of God brings Hope to understand with God’s vision - like how the crew of a submarine observe all through the periscope - we must keep our eyes focussed on what God has promised us (Hebrews 12:1-4).

For example, in a fearful scenario: remember and decree the Lord God’s promises from Psalm 91 and personalise it!

‘I will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day. Lord, You promised to protect me from the enemy traps, and surround me with Your angels to guard me. You are with me in trouble, and You will deliver me and honour me, and show me Your Salvation. I trust You Lord Jesus’.

Hallelujah!

This is how you fight the negative thoughts and circumstances. Just like Jesus did - resist them with the Word of God (Matthew 4:1-11; 1 Peter 5:6-9). Enemy taunts will try to penetrate your deepest parts. Hence it’s a matter of life or death to know the Living God Whom you trust in - that He has plans for your good life – paid for with the Blood of His Son Jesus (Jeremiah 29:11-14; John 10:10).

Folks speculate at everything that’s happening in the world, on what society needs right now? What the world needs are faithful, courageous people who know their God – Who empowers them to do mighty exploits (Daniel 11:32).

Nehemiah was given a gigantic task by God, to mobilise an army of people to clear the huge debris and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Enemies arose from every corner, even from among his own people. They tried to distract and frighten him with disaster scenarios.

Nehemiah’s answer? “I cannot come down, for I am engaged in a great work! (Nehemiah 6:1-9).

Friend, stay strong, ignore the bullies, and keep your faith!