"I HAVE DECIDED
'Contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.' Jude 3
The specific word is to 'hang in there!' If it sounds a little too casual for you, then know that what's being said is, 'Don't let go!' It presses us to be tenacious. New Testament saint, when a spiritual issue is on the line, we're called to be boldly bull-doggish!
You make up your mind about faith. You will believe; you won't. There's no middle ground. Faith takes a position on matters of truth, health, need, trial, problem, pressure, difficulty, tribulation, stress... you determine: (1) where you are; (2) what is happening; and (3) what god's word says about what's happening in you. Then STAND FAST.
When you take a position, there's something you can count on. Warfare. Believe me, I'm a veteran [at this]. Example: Declare the truth on a given subject, say healing for instance, and the next thing I know we're under physical attack. I find when Iteach a truth to the congregation, that it will be tested by trial. Praise God!
The trials of fire temper truth to the life; the season of conflict brings a quality of confidence. I find I Peter 1:7 to be powerfully true: the trial of your faith finds it to be unconquerable. Taking a position in faith guarantess conflict. But standing in faith guarantees triumph! You can believe it!
Now, take a position with me! We have declared the truth on our faith. It's founded on more than you and me. It's when we recognize we've been called to be a people of faith, that its at that point that we will be challenged. The Lord says 'Hang in there!' We often sing, 'I have decided to follow Jesus.' That says it for me. I think we're learning faith in a strong way. When you take a distinct stance to follow in faith, you'll see your life established and grounded.
I'm calling for your joining with me... standing fast in prayer and confidence. I feel better all the time about not being in this alone. The Lord promises His presence to be ours. And the promises of His Word abound toward us. No, we're not alone... but we need to stand together. Amen? Amen! Let's seek Him with praise and contend for everything God has for us in this hour of spiritual triumph!
Pastor Ron