STAND

Ephesians 6:10–13 God calls us to put on the whole armour of God to stand against the enemy’s schemes. This emphasizes our divine call to remain standing, unwavering, and relentless, regardless of the challenges life may bring—be it in our finances, our marriages, or any other aspect of our lives.

Choosing our companions wisely is critical to maintaining a standing position in our faith. Luke 9:62 reinforces the idea that Christ doesn’t want us to turn back once we’ve set our hand to the plow. Take, for example, Lot’s wife, who couldn’t resist looking back at her past, ultimately facing dire consequences. Sometimes, it becomes necessary to burn bridges, leaving behind the influences that may hinder our spiritual progress.

Acts 13:1-13 provides an interesting insight into companionship dynamics within the early Church. It raises the question: Are you taking offence on behalf of other people? This incident between Paul and John Mark reminds us that misunderstandings and disagreements can occur even among faithful believers. However, it also underscores the importance of unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ.

Acts 15:36-41 presents another perspective on companionship and disagreements. Even devoted missionaries like Paul and Barnabas had differences that led to their separation. However, this division ultimately resulted in the spread of the Gospel to more regions.

The importance of remaining in a standing position as Christians while carefully selecting our companions cannot be overstated. Just as the whole armour of God equips us to stand firm in our faith, the support and influence of our companions play a vital role in our spiritual journey. We should act as ambassadors of Christ, bearing in mind that our behaviour and choices can either hinder or enhance our impact on the world. By seeking wisdom, discernment, and unity in our companionships, we can navigate the complexities of life while firmly standing in our faith.