Stand Firm

Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends! (Philippians 4:1, NIV)

Good Morning!

We are having another day of record triple digit heat. As you might expect, there are some individuals that battle with their attitudes and actions when the heat turns up. There are always exceptions to our expectations. After a meeting last night, 101 degree heat blasted our group as we left the building. I developed a little attitude and dared the group to jump through the sprinklers that were turned on. And, yes, one individual took the dare. Yup . . . without hesitation . . . the individual, a close friend of mine, jumped through the sprinklers. As we erupted into laughter, I was reminded of the value of experiencing joy. There are certain principles of life that should never be compromised. Joy is a vital component of living fully and wholly.

As far as the Apostle Paul was concerned, a Christ-follower stands firm on specific principles. The word "stand" can be read as "belief." Throughout the book of Philippians, he connected the act of rejoicing despite challenges and/or circumstances in life. Difficulties can not only be managed, but managed with joy, when an individual connects with the presence of Christ. Joy occurs through a connection with Christ; however, humanity often depends on the details of life to determine the joy factor.

Living under the control and through the connection of Christ activates joy when an individual is cognizant of the gift of being in Christ.

Stand firm (believe) in the principle of rejoicing.
Take time to meditate on the presence of Christ.
Be still to know His presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Rejoice!
Stand firm--refuse to lose your joy!
Carry the joy of living throughout the day and into the night!
Learning with you to stand firm (believe) and rejoice,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)