1 Corinthians 16:10-14
....Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.
Paul reminded the Christians to be alert, to stand firm in the faith. The church at Corinth was a very gifted church, but they were often fighting amongst themselves. Some held the apostles in high regard others held in high regard certain gifts and teaching. Hence, they often fought about these individual differences and preferences. Paul reminded them to turn back to the truth, and not fight about these things which are of secondary importance, so that they can be truly united and experience the freedom in their hearts. Paul warned them to be on their guard, so that they do not give the devil Satan a foothold, and not allow their different gifts and opinions to cause division in the church. We need to stand firm in the faith, resist the enemy so he shall flee from us!
Not only that, Paul also exhorted them to be men of courage, to be strong, but not to be harsh against their brothers and sisters in Christ. To be gentle and patient towards other brothers and sisters, to be compassionate and restore them when they fall, to have a tender heart and pray for them. To be strong is referring to being strong against the enemy, to be strong in the midst of our circumstances as well as not to fear or lose heart. Just like Joshua during the old testament times, God commanded him to lead the Israelites into the land of Canaan in the face of much opposition. God told Joshua to be strong and courageous because God was with him. Similarly, the Church today is fighting a spiritual battle, and there are a lot of opposition in front of us. Paul exhorted everyone to be strong to fight the enemy, and that God will fight for us to triumph over our enemies daily.
Paul said, "Do everything in love." There is actually a limit to a human's love. This love needs to come from God to be patient, kind and enduring. Let us love one another, not just love the pastors, but all our brothers and sisters in Christ as well, so that we are united in the love of Christ. May the world see this love in us and know that we are disciples of Christ.
Pray with Pastor Tong
Lord, we pray that your love will once pour out into our lives. Let us not only stand on the foundation of truth, but also be filled with more of your love so that others may see our witness and give glory to you. We thank you and pray in the victorious name of Jesus, Amen!
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