D.L.

STAND FIRM

Many things are going on in these verses below, like the end of times, wars, persecution, revolution, family struggles. There are so many things that frighten us. When I read this, I want to change the page, change the channel, but I cannot because here are words we can watch over our screens; we are living it.  All that Jesus is saying right in these verses now feels so real.

During my lifetime, I have experienced the turmoil of a government coup. I have met brothers being persecuted for their faith. I have lived through some terrifying earthquakes. I have lived among people who had and are suffering much. We had to face the reality of the deadly Covid in our family, and this week my dearly loved auntie Hermia passed away. I have experienced church breakdowns, and at times, when I have nothing to say, I have seen the Lord giving words.

But one thing has not changed; these two words are like a heavy anchor capable of grounding me to our faith’s firm foundations, STAND FIRM.

Look at Jill’s picture and ask the Lord to speak to you. Ask if you are anchored in him!

““Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?” He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. And so you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. Everyone will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish. Stand firm, and you will win life.”
(Luke 21:7–19 NIV11-GKE)