Stand Strong

I was recently insulted and mocked by a stranger. He was upset I was not conforming to the patterns of this world. My response was terrible. I wasn’t ready for a confrontation. It was a lesson for me. I now know I must, “Preach the word; be prepared in and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2) Did I do any of this. Nope. The truth is I failed. I hate that I was unprepared. I should have been courageous and spoke words of value to this stranger. Would he have cared? Maybe not. However, I would have peace knowing that I did what was right. That I did stand strong.

Not conforming is uncomfortable. However, God is clear, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) I own a movie where a shepherds entire flock of sheep run off a cliff. It started with one running and the others following. All the way until the last sheep is over and dead. We absolutely need to recognize a bad pattern and stand strong in opposition. You can refresh your mind with God’s truth. “Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)

Jatya, a Christian in India, has been physically threatened to conform to a false religion. Men used by Satan have even broke every one of his fingers. He is continuously persecuted. Yet, he continues to stand strong. He will not conform. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” (Matthew 5:10) An incredible promise from a just God.

God calls us to stand strong. Sadly, we gain our strength from being uncomfortable. I pray that the next time I’m confronted I will be ready and courageous. Remember God is with us - stand strong!