As we have discussed various portions of this sentence, I would like to reflect and conclude on what does it actually mean to be steadfast?
My mind immediately thinks to our family passage this year. We are studying Matthew 7:24-27, the wise man and the foolish man. Jesus is teaching on what life in the Word looks like, those who listen; and life outside His teaching looks like... the foolish man. It is very applicable here. When we come to trials- are we built on the rock, which is Christ and His word, or have we bought into folly, worldly standards and help and built on sand?
When outside trials hit- the storms of life- where does your house go? Look at the last storm you weathered? What was left when the storm passed? Where you anchored into Jesus, grateful, clinging and trusting all the yet more? Or did you turn to secular philosophies and hopes and found yourself on sinking sand?
This is so easy to do, our climate right now is absolutely a trial. From Covid, to politics and racial tensions, it is so easy if you get your thoughts from the news, from social media or crowd surfing to see what is 'right,' to end up in a situation where you have built your house and your hopes on sand.
Christ is how you produce steadfastness. How? By hearing the Word of God and doing them (Matthew 7:24) Jesus literally teaches us how we can become resolute and grounded. Faith comes from hearing. And hearing through the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
James gives us the opportunity to access are we following true or vain religion. Looking back at the last few months would you say you were steadfast? Did you allow these trials to cultivate a steadfastness and hope in Jesus Christ? Or as we will read in a few verses did you find yourselves tossed to and fro?
Worship for today: O Love that wilt not let me Go
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