Still standing

Still Standing!
Listen to Saint Paul’s words, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Cor. 4:8-9, NIV) Often people who are experiencing challenging and difficult times will unknowingly speak a curse over their lives and say, “I’ve been down so long, I don’t think I’ll ever get up.” As Christians, we can find comfort in Paul’s words. They encourage us. Paul tells us we may be: (1) pressed, but we will not be crushed; (2) perplexed, but not in despair; (3) persecuted, but not abandoned by God; and (4) struck down, but not destroyed. When counseling people, I encourage them to speak God’s Word over themselves and their families. I stress that when dealing with spiritual warfare, trials or challenges, they need to say: “I have been bruised and wounded, but by God’s grace, I am still standing.” I always emphasize the importance of turning to God and His word when they face trials and difficulties. I encourage them to walk in the Spirit and fight the good fight of faith. Together, we will read the Scriptures that tell us our victory has already been won. I remind them that Satan is stubborn, and he refuses to accept the fact that he has already been defeated. I remind them that on the cross, Jesus won, and in Christ, we win every time! Friends, in the midst of life’s storms, speak boldly to Satan and tell him, “In the name of Jesus, I will not be afraid!” Stand on God’s Word and tell Satan to get behind you! Then while still in the storm, praise God for the victory that is ours and boldly walk it out. Look at your challenges as another opportunity to develop your faith and grow spiritually. Whenever you hear someone say they feel overwhelmed, depressed, and beaten down, boldly share God’s word with them. Be an encourager! Share your testimony with others. Remind them to speak the truth of God’s Word over their lives’. Teach them that in the midst of life’s trials, to say with a thankful heart, “I have been bruised and wounded, but by God’s grace, I am still standing.” Lord, thank you for the truth of your Word that promises us that we are covered by the blood of Christ amid the storms and trials of life. And Lord, thank you for the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit who reminds us we have victory through the blood of Jesus, who is “Still Standing” with us to the end of the ages!
Grace and peace always,
Fr. Greg