REMAIN STEADFAST
Friday, 22nd July 2016
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 (NKJV)
"13. But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth,
14. to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15. Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.
16. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace,
17. comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work."
One main objective of Satan in bringing afflictions and temptations or trials to God’s people is first, to make them doubt the love of God and then to cause them to fall away from the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ. Be assured, however, that God will not allow His children to be tempted beyond their strength. (1 Cor. 10:13). Apart from the trials and persecutions, which the Thessalonian Christians had passed through on account of their faith, there is no doubt that individuals amongst them had attacks from the “pit of hell” in various areas of their lives.
Paul’s concern for all the Churches he planted was that they should remain steadfast in the faith that had been passed on to them. Apostle Peter also had this burden: that in view of the certain Second Coming of Jesus, Christians have a duty to maintain a strong testimony in a world that is fast preparing itself for final destruction. As Christians, we are aliens in this world and must live circumspectly in order not to misrepresent our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. This is how we must make our calling and election sure (2 Thess. 3:13-15; 2 Pet. 1:3-8).
Prayer: May I Lord, remain steadfast until my life’s end.