“[A]nd having done all, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6:13 ESV
Stand firm. God’s word leaves no room for negotiation when it comes to abiding by His truth and walking in His paths of righteousness.
Stand Firm in the Battle
Like many families, we struggle when loved ones ask us to accept ideas and behaviors that stand in direct contrast to how God wants His people to live. We have been asked allow wrong practices into our home, and to mold our thinking after societal norms rather than scripture. This conflict touches increasing numbers of families in our world today.
With powerful encouragement, Paul’s words repeat through Ephesians 6 be strong, stand against the schemes of the devil, withstand in the evil day, stand firm, stand therefore. The closing of Paul’s letter is not milk for infants, but meat for mature believers who are called to “contend for the faith.” (Jude 3)
At first the task seemed impossible. Though we trusted that God had a plan, the uncertainty of what would happen almost paralyzed us. Was it possible to honor God, yet maintain a relationship under the circumstances without compromising our beliefs?
Stand Firm in His Truth
When Daniel faced continuing to pray to the one true God or being cast into the lion’s den, he stood 
firm, continuing to pray near his windows facing Jerusalem three times a day. They arrested Daniel and threw him in with the lions. If God allowed his life to be sacrificed for his faith, he would go to be with the Lord. However, Daniel trusted in the power of His God to save his life and show Himself greater than any earthly ruler.
The next morning, Daniel testified that His God closed the mouths of the lions because he trusted in His Name. As a result, King Darius had the men who accused Daniel thrown to the lions, along with their families, and decreed that all the people were to “tremble and fear before the God of Daniel.” (Daniel 6:26-27)
Defend Your Faith
With love and prayer, my husband I have stood firm and trusted God. We laid out our reasons for obedience to God while expressing our love and our desire to continue our relationship. The grounds for our obedience rests in our belief that every word in the Bible, both Old and New Testaments is true, all the time. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:18, “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”
It is easy to feel overwhelmed by those who don’t believe in God, or doubt the truth of His whole word. Too often, Christians fear to take a stand against popular rhetoric, but when we are faithful to God, He is faithful and will fight for us. He will do marvelous things in the lives of those who steadfastly put their trust in Him.
We read in the Isaiah 46:8-11, “‘Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose … I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it.’” God wants to do great things for you. Stand firm and trust Him.
Don’t Give In
Today, there is intense pressure to give in to the ideas of the world. Similarly, a mighty army threatened to destroy Judah during the rule of King Jehoshaphat. In 2 Chronicles 20, they sought help from the Lord. The king prayed, “‘For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.’” The people stood firm and trusted God. They sang and praised the Lord, and He set an ambush against their enemies. Their enemies were destroyed without them having to do battle. “And the fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel.” (2 Chronicles 20:29)
As we pray and trust God to act on our behalf, we are constantly amazed at His faithfulness. The relationship with our loved ones continues to improve. They are more open to God’s word, and have even attended church with us when visiting. We still differ on many issues. However, we see God’s faithfulness as we stand firm and refuse to give in to the lies of our society.
Stand Firm and Expect God to Work
Paul understood the struggle we face today. He lived in a world that was hostile to the God of the Bible and the truth of scripture. The early Christians were faced with cults and all kinds of evil practices. In Ephesians 6: 10-12, Paul explained the source of the evil they contended with. Then, in verse 13, he says, “Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”
Psalm 91 speaks of God as our refuge and fortress. In the closing verses, we read, “‘Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him.’”
Honor God’s word. Seek Him in prayer. Stand firm in His strength and might. Clothe yourself daily in His armor. Trust Him to work in your circumstances in ways you cannot imagine. Thank Him for His faithfulness.
“Stand firm in His strength and might.” Not our own.
Such a timely reminder. I have been tempted to keep quiet more lately than ever before. But I need to be really to give an answer for my faith. Thank you!