Our Scripture reading today is 1 Corinthians 16:13, "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong."
It is quite clear from this one verse of Scripture that we are soldiers in the army of the LORD. Each one of these terms that Paul mentions are similar in meaning and point to the way we should conduct ourselves as we go up against the world, the flesh and the devil. The first statement, "watch ye", challenges us to always be on guard. We cannot take a day off in our walk with God. We cannot take a day off in putting on the armour of God. Our enemy will never stop trying to distract us from God's plan for our lives. It is imperative that we are always watching. Matthew 26:41, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Next, we are to "stand fast in the faith". God's people need God's Word. Our stand should be with compassion, but it should also be firm. The Word of God continues to strengthen our faith. Galatians 5:1, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Next, we are challenged to "quit you like men." This phrase admonishes us not to flinch when we the attack comes. We are not only to hold our ground, but we are to advance forward. Lastly, Paul says we are should "be strong". Our strength is not in us, but it comes to us through the LORD. Psalm 18:39, "For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me."
Thankfully, the battle is the LORD's! We can rely and lean on Him for our daily victory!