Tuesday March, 9 2021 Devotional
"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love." - 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Paul’s admonitions to the Christians at Corinth as he ends his first letter to them are sound advice and the expression of God’s will for Christian men throughout the centuries.
Be watchful. In a battle zone we often say, “Keep your head on a swivel,” or “Watch your six.” They both mean be aware of your surroundings; keep your eyes open; you don’t know from where the next attack might come. Never assume you’re beyond the reach of the world, the flesh and the devil!
Stand firm in the Faith. Keep your balance; don’t get lazy; take your place and stand on it. Know what you believe from the Bible (get your feet under you) and stand firmly on it. Don’t compromise the truth of God’s Word.
Act like men. It has always fascinated me that God exhorts men to act like men. He never has to encourage women to act like women. The world, on the other hand, is constantly telling men that they should “get in touch with their feminine side” and act more like women. God says, Man up, guys! Step up and take your place in the Kingdom of God! We need men to step into the role of manly leadership.
Be strong. Man or woman, strength is needed. Exercise your spiritual muscles. Learn to use faith and step out in the power of Jesus’ name. The Holy Spirit will pour the strength into you when you need it.
Let all that you do be done in love. In the World’s eyes this would seem to contradict the “act like men” command, but that’s because the World doesn’t understand either manliness or love. Love others the way that God defines love and you will become the man or the woman that God intended you to be.
Father, You made me what I am, You have called me to serve You, and You have shown me the way to do it. Pour Your strength into me today as I take my stand on Your Word in Christian love, to face whatever comes in the power of Your Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles