08/28/2026
"Be On The Alert, Stand Firm In The Faith, Act Like Men, Be Strong." - 1 Corinthians 16:13
This Scripture reminds us to be vigilant and watch out for spiritual dangers, tests, or bad influences. We must also guard our minds against bad habits, deceitful teachings, and temptations and think like a watchman who looks out for danger before it arrives.
To "stand firm in the faith" is to hold your ground. To not let fear, pressure, or worldly trends push you away from your trust in God. Continue in those virtuous and moral paths in life as we strive for righteousness.
Acting like a man Biblically is a broad topic that covers a range of subjects. In one place it means trusting God when no one believes you for 100 years as you complete a task others laugh about. In another place it means being betrayed by your blood brothers and not seeking vengeance years later when they apply to you for aid but instead treating them with mercy and grace. In yet another place it means facing a giant with a rock and a sling and yet trusting God that you will have the victory. Acting like a man means being courageous and not cheating or being a bully just because you can. It means working hard and understanding that God is in control even when you are not.
Finally, being strong is akin to being a man. The two walk hand in hand towards that eternal rest we are promised. Strength is measured in the ability to both endure and yield. It is also, at differing times, both war and peace within the same man. Strength is required to move and to be still, to lead and to follow. Remember the warrior in the garden and the pen that was mightier than the sword. Strength is measured by the quality of your victory and not by the quantity.
Mark Well!
