Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:13 Continue. It is not starting that is significant, but finishing. Those in the early Church saw powerful results from devoting themselves to a lifestyle of getting to know God. Day after day, they devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). As we choose to recurrently focus on Jesus, He provides the sustaining power that will see us through in triumph. "I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken" (Psalm 16:8). Continual devotion will keep us fresh and sustain us through our entire life.

Those who endure to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13). If you feel like your pilot light has been blown out, don't despair. Great leaders in the Bible also experienced times of fatigue and depression. Elijah and Paul both despaired of life; yet, God brought them through and they accomplished all they were called to do (1 Kings 19; 2 Corinthians 1:8). In Psalms, David writes, "My eyes are continually toward the Lord, for He will pluck my feet out of the net" (25:15). Don't underestimate the power of continually devoting yourself: cracking open your Bible when you don't feel like it; opening your mouth and praising God; staying in fellowship with other believers. This consistency will sustain you!

I like this approach: "I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth"(Psalm 34:1). In high times, hard times, and when out of time, dedicate yourself to the Word and fellowship. If you find yourself in a trial and don't have quick answers, continue to stand (Ephesians 6:13-14). There are miracles God has up ahead for you, mountains to climb, ground to gain, people to reach. And the sustaining grace of God will enable you to fulfill the call!

Stand Firm!
Pastor Jeff





© 2007 St. Louis Family Church. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reprinted or distributed in any form without prior written permission of St. Louis Family Church. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation.