Last week’s teaching was focused on the concept of strength in relation to our relationship with God. The passage Ephesians 6:10-13 talks about standing and withstanding, which means that for us to be strong in the Lord, we must cleave to His word. The foundation was set with this passage, and the lesson then focused on the strength that we have to develop, which must come from God.
Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can do all things through Christ, who strengthens us. We must draw our strength from God, and not from any other source. We don’t have to be perfect to be strong in the Lord, but we must be faithful. Hebrews 11:33 provides a list of believers who were not perfect but were able to do great things through their faith. Even David, who made many mistakes, humbled himself before God, sought forgiveness, and moved on.
In a world where suicide rates are increasing, especially among 18-30 year-olds, we have something bigger than material things to rely on, and that is our strength in God. We have to communicate and share this strength with others, just as the coworker shared a conversation with the writer about the Word of God.
Finally, Romans 4:19-20 describes how Abraham and Sarah held onto God’s promise, despite their old age, and were strong in faith. To be strong in the Lord, work is required by the believer. Therefore, we must consistently cleave to God’s word, draw our strength from Him, and have faith in His promises.
