This Is From the Antipas Prayer Force Archives, 12/27/2008)

 WATCH, STAND FAST IN THE FAITH, BE BRAVE, BE STRONG. (1 Corinthians 16:13)

During what was later to be called, "The Battle of the Bulge," German forces overran 2 regiments of the 106th Division and thousands were forced to surrender.  Thousands of US green troops, however, just turned and ran from the Wehrmacht onslaught.  Earlier in the war, after the debacle at Kasserine Pass, where some stood and fought, but others turned and ran, General Patton said, "Even the best foxhounds are gun shy the first time out."  No blame here, just the reality of life for humans.  Now what about you and me in the midst of the current battle?

The Holy Spirit would not have urged Paul to write our text if Believers did not need this kind of exhortation and encouragement.  We all know people who exude the air of perfect spirituality, never show signs of weakness, never fearful, always seemingly on top of things; I write not for them.  I write for those who find days when we need to hear, "watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong."  

There are seasons in this pilgrimage when the enemy throws overwhelming forces at us, and we too face the temptation to turn and attempt to outrun the onslaught.  Our text commands us what to do.  Someone once said that when the Lord says, "Fear not," He has a reason; something is facing us which will cause fear.  But to those who are utterly dependent in Jesus Christ, the, "Fear not," command rules.  

Mark this:  There are no impossible commands in the Bible.  If some seem as such, it is only because we try to walk in them apart from total dependency on the Living, Indwelling Christ.  "Watch," in Jesus.  "Stand fast in the faith," in Jesus Christ.  "Be brave," in Jesus. "Be strong," in Jesus Christ.  And, as He says, "Do this and you will live."

Father, in Jesus' Name, thank You that You are the power of the command.  Amen.