Be Encouraged

"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.  Do everything in love."  1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV)

These words of encouragement were spoken by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the believers in The Church at Corinth.  He wanted to come to them, but he had work to finish in Ephesus so he was encouraging them to be on their guard against evil teaching, to keep the faith, to stand firm in their belief, and to do all that they do in a loving Christ-like manner.

Things will not always go the way that we want them to go.  However, regardless of the position or situation that we find ourselves in, we are still to behave in a Christ-like manner.  Nothing that happens to us, or around us, should cause us to lose our faith in God.  We are to put on the whole armor of God so that we can guard against the attacks of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)  We must stand firm, unyielding and unshaken, in our faith and in our beliefs. (Romans 5:2 and 1 Corinthians 2:5)  We must be courageous as we face the storms of life and our trials, tribulations, and temptations, for God did not give us the spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7)  We must be strong and make use of His strength. (1 Chronicles 16:11 and Psalms 105:4)  With His strength all things are possible. (Philippians 4:13)  Whatever comes our way will be for our benefit. (Romans 8:28)  He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5)  With Him we have the victory because through Him we are more than conquerors. (Romans 8:37)  So, no matter what, stand firm, keep the faith, and be of good courage, The Lord God is with us.