Standing Firm

Standing Firm

Dr. Marshall M. Windsor

Mark 13:13 tells us, "Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved" (NIV). Although this doesn't sound very encouraging to those who are trying to live the Christian life, Jesus Christ does help us truthfully see that our everyday lives may not always be easy – even if you're a Christian. Lately, Christian news outlets have reinforced this truism with the reports of a Pentecostal pastor, Mathayo Kachilli, being beheaded in Tanzania and Pastor Saeed Abedini sentenced to eight years in the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran (and now moved to an even more notorious prison) because of their faith in Jesus Christ.

In many parts of the world, Christians face severe persecution and even death. Although Jesus honestly teaches us that we will all have to deal with persecution at some level, how do we "deal" with it? Does the Bible really have anything to say about how to deal with persecution or on how to "stand firm" in the Christian faith?

One Scripture that comes to mind is Ephesians 6:10-18, where we are instructed to "stand firm" by putting on the Armor of God. This includes: the Belt of Truth, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Gospel of Peace, the Shield of Faith, the Helmet of Salvation and the Sword of the Spirit. The full armor means that we should have: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation (or a right relationship with God), and the Word of God in our hearts.

This doesn't make persecution go away in every case, but it does prepare us for the battle that often ensues. As the Lord said in verse 12, "For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (NIV). Half the battle is being where God wants us to be and allowing Him to work through us in prayer. As we seek God's will in our lives, we'll find a peace that passes all understanding (Phil 4:6-7) and discover firm footing where none existed before. As verse 18 confirms, with an attitude of prayer, we'll be able to stand firm.

Won't you take a moment to pray for those who are enduring persecution for the Gospel's sake today? And while you're at it, ask God if you are where He wants you to be.