Stand Firm

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all

wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in our hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16)

The Bible tells us that the closer we approach the second coming of Christ, the world will be

filled with increased pressures, distractions, deceptions and other realities. How do we keep

ourselves as Jude 1:21 says, “…in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life” and lead our families to stand firm in the faith? How do we navigate the days we are living in with hope and fruitfulness? We may ask like the psalmist in Psalm 119:9, “How does a young man keep his way pure?” The answer is found in the same verse. “By guarding it according to your word.”

Colossians 3:16 starts by saying, “Let the word of Christ dwell in your richly…” Just like a tree

needs a deep, strong root system to help it stand tall and healthy so do we. We as families need to be steeped in God’s word. His word is our refuge and defense. His word is an integral part of the diet he has appointed to nourish us. His word is our battle plan. His word washes us clean.

His word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our paths (Psalm 119:105) giving us guidance and keeping us from being trapped by the snares of the evil one. God’s word reminds us of the “…unchangeable character of his purpose…” (Hebrews 6:17) and “…gives us strong

encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us” (Hebrews 6:18).

God desires to equip our families to overcome the world, display his splendor and complete

the mission he has for us. However, building spiritual strength and endurance takes time and

requires us to be grounded and anchored in the truth. Jesus is the truth and his word is truth. If we become what we behold, then we must be intentional to behold Christ. If we want to stand firm against the enemy of our souls, we need to keep our spiritual swords sharp.

Are we treasuring God’s word? Are we allowing what he says to shape our family culture, decision making and attitudes toward one another? Take time to read the Bible as an individual, as couples and as a family. Discuss it. Meditate on it. Pay attention to what God is highlighting to you about his character and his ways. You can sing his promises or draw them which can be especially helpful with little ones. Memorize scripture and watch how the Holy Spirit guides your thoughts and conversations as he helps you recall what you have learned about Jesus.

Don’t give up. Don’t get weary or depart from what may seem basic. It is crucial. In coming

to Jesus daily we will receive mercy to help us in our time of need and courage to remain

steadfast in our love. Our homes will show a watching world the blessing and stability that

comes from following Christ. May the Holy Spirit help us stand on God’s promises, hide behind his character and glorify his name as we allow his word to take up residence in us.

By Sophia Howard