Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. – 1 Corinthians 16:13
Easter is a fun time, often celebrated by special services, family gatherings, and children opening baskets full of goodies. The first part of today’s verse says, “Be watchful!” Don’t forget what the holiday is all about. Because of Jesus’ resurrection, you have the hope of eternal life. Rejoice! “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you” (Romans 8:11).
Secondly, today’s verse says, “Stand firm in the faith.” In these days, when you’re pressured to accept everyone’s religion as valid, cling to the words of Jesus. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). And remember, “There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Jesus is the only one in any religion that died and came back to life. Do not waver, but put your trust in Him.
Thirdly, the verse says to ”act like men,” or as some translations say, be courageous. While persecution increases against Christians, pray for courage for all believers to serve the Lord and spread the gospel to everyone. In Acts, Christians prayed for boldness and they received it. (Acts 4:29-31).
Lastly, be strong. Maintain integrity when the pressure to do wrong is intense. Pray for the United States, that Christians will be a bright shining light in the darkness. “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). This is the way you can shine.
Today’s Verse: 1 Corinthians 16:13
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Matthew 5:9-16
9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
