“Stand therefore” (Ephesians 6:14). What an incredible challenge! It takes courage to stand. Yet before courage comes determination. Human calculations will always find a thousand reasonable reasons to stand down or quit, which may sound good, but are usually wrong.
Imagine how Moses felt when God called him to lead the children of Israel and speak to Pharaoh. Moses convinced himself that he wasn’t eloquent enough because he stuttered. God’s answer? “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD? Now therefore, go….” (Exodus 4:11-12). And Moses went in God’s power.
When God called Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nations, he protested that he was too young (Jeremiah 1:6). Jeremiah felt unqualified and inadequate because of his lack of experience. God’s answer? “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak” (Jeremiah 1:7-8). And Jeremiah spoke God’s words.
There is a story of a California miner who grew tired of chip, chip, chipping every day in his search for gold and gave up. He sold his claim to another, who soon discovered what the other had given up on. Remember, fear or feelings may tempt you to stop what you’re doing, but it is always too soon to quit.
God is calling you to stand. Whether it’s ministry, a hostile work environment, remaining steadfast in your marriage commitment, or some other arena, determine in your mind and heart to stand therefore.
