In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel. Ephesians 6:16-19
It was quite a few years ago that Soviet Premier Khrushchev spoke to his congress and criticized his dead predecessor: Josef Stalin. During the course of his speech, a member of the audience sent up a note, which asked, "What were you doing when Stalin committed all these atrocities?" Khrushchev shouted, "Who sent up that note?" No one moved. "I'll give him one minute to stand up!" The seconds ticked off. Still no one moved. Khruschev explained, "All right, I'll tell you what I was doing. I was doing exactly what the writer of this note was doing--exactly nothing! I was afraid to be counted!"
It's a simple fact: the Lord knows it takes courage to stand up for the things you believe in. I'm not necessarily talking about the big battles of life. . .just the little ones. It takes courage to say "no" to your child who wants to see a movie you don't approve of. It takes courage for a teen to say "no" to someone who offers liquor or drugs. It takes courage to be honest in your business dealings. But a successful life is, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and in thanksgiving to Jesus Christ, composed of winning these little battles, and our lives are shaped by faithfulness and integrity to our Redeemer. It is my prayer, and the wish of our loving Lord, that you stand fast. Trust in Him for help as you stand up during your battles today and in all your tomorrows.
From a devotion originally written for "By the Way"
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, I am determined to stand fast in my daily battles. Please fill me with Your strength as I seek to be faithful to You and live my life with integrity. I put my trust in You, and I find comfort in the knowledge that You will not leave my side. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
In Christ I remain His servant and yours,
Pastor Ken Klaus
Speaker emeritus of The Lutheran Hour®
Lutheran Hour Ministries
Today's Bible Readings: Isaiah 3-4 2 Corinthians 12
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