Watch! Stand firm in the faith! Be courageous! Be strong! Let all that you do be done in love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 WEB
As Paul begins to close his first letter to the Corinthians, he gives five commands to his readers. This is typical of good leadership. Paul is reminding the church of the importance of these things and directing their attention to bravely staying on guard against assaults to their faith.
Paul asks the Corinthians to be watchful. This admonition has many possible meanings. First, the church should remain vigilant in expectation of the return of Christ. Also, they should keep alert to the possibility of false teachers leading them astray. And so, Paul encourages the church to “stand firm in the faith!”
Be Strong and Courageous
In addition, Paul instructs the Corinthians to be strong and courageous. He knows that the church is subject to attacks from unbelievers, cultural influences, and varied spiritual movements that stand in opposition to the truth of Jesus Christ. It cannot be overlooked that spiritual forces of wickedness from Satan and his devotees pose a danger to those who fail to stand firm in the faith.
Finally, Paul reminds the church to do all things in love. This is a command of Christ. Jesus says in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another. WEB” Paul’s words echo this commandment while emphasizing the most crucial element of standing firm in the faith. As we read in 1 John 4:8, “Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the guidance of the holy scriptures. Thank you for the brave men and women of faith who left their example of faith. Help me to be strong and courageous. Help me to stand strong in the faith. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Seek and You Will Find
