Reading: Psalm 15:1-5
Psalm 15 is very descriptive on how we gain characteristics that will keep us standing firm forever. When we worry less about ourselves and more about the concerns of others, we stand firmer in the end. Those who speak truth with sincere hearts and refuse to gossip will stand firm forever. As well as those who speak evil of their friends, honor followers of The Lord, and loan to others without expecting more in return. These are folks who care about others over looking good themselves. When we choose to put others before us, even if it means hurt to us, we stand firm. Suddenly we don't put the focus and pressure on ourselves, but onto others and onto God. When your world seem to crash down and everything seems to go wrong, it doesn't hit you as hard in most cases because the focus is still strongly on others and the faith is in God, Who pulls you through the smoke. Try this. Focus on those around you and their concerns, and let God carry you through yours. Just see how firm you'll be standing in the end.
Reading: Matthew 17:14-18:9
Other things that keep us standing firm are explained throughout this reading in Matthew. Jesus tells us that faith like a mustard seed can move mountains. Faith is a huge characteristic in standing firm in Christ. In fact, faith is the basis of it. Without true faith, we don't stand firm. Faith is how we get through the seemingly impossible. With God all things are doable and possible. We see Jesus spare offending the temple tax collectors and tell Peter to pay the tax, even though Jesus should be exempt from paying in His own house (His Father's house). We see Him putting others before Himself, as we looked at in the Psalm reading. In chapter 18, Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility. Standing firm entails having a soul and character of humility. Think like a child, and respect the children. We live in a society of great pride and entitlement (we've had this conversation before). You can see how much God encourages and calls for humility throughout His Word, but how much our media thrives on fame, and the whole doing what you feel like doing concept. The focus is always own self, with an occasional "do what is right" message to keep the peace. Our minds should always be outward-focused, with the occasional self reflection and refreshing.
Reading: Genesis 49:1-50:26
Standing firm means standing firm through the rough times, and trusting that God has a plan. As both Jacob and Joseph see the ends of their lives in this reading, there is much reflection on where God has brought them. Both give the credit to no one but God either. Jacob blesses each of his children, remembering the promise God made long ago in giving Abraham many ancestors. This sort of reflection is credible to God alone, as Jacob tells of each of their struggles and prosperity.
Joseph continues to stand firm in his relationship with God as he grants his brothers forgiveness, crediting God for where he is today. The trials that Joseph endured and the triumphs he experienced are all passed back to The Lord. Standing firm no matter your current circumstance is important in trusting God in good times and bad. What are you trusting God for today?
The Word offers many ways to stay on the rock. Putting others ahead of yourself, humility, faith and trust are just a few, but definitely important. How can you put these things into practice as you carry on in our world? How will you leave a legacy like Jacob and Joseph when it comes to your faith?
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