Spiritual atrophy results from apathy
“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”
1 Corinthians 16:13 NKJV
My thoughts and comments today are that you, “Be Strong.”
“Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might . . Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore.” Read Ephesians 6:10-18 NKJV. Strength is developed, not obtained. Strength develops through opposition and is maintained by resistance. The Bible is about ordinary people who are described as, “Out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.” Hebrews 11:34 NKJV.
People for whom life is easy do not become strong. Challenges, that you face and during which you remain faithful, develop strength. There are differing expressions of strength, such as – physical, emotional, psychological, moral, and spiritual. As individuals, we have differing strengths.
Each person may possess multiple strengths of greater or lesser degree. Where do your strengths lie? What strengths do you need to develop? The Bible describes Jesus’ growth and development in this way, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” Luke 2:52 NIV. Jesus’ development was complete and balanced – intellectually, physically, spiritually, and socially. Jesus is our example.
There is an important prerequisite. You must welcome Jesus to dwell in you by means of the Holy Spirit. “That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man.” Read Ephesians 3:16-20 NKJV. Let me suggest some of where you and I can, and must, learn to be strengthened in Christ.
Continue vigilant in prayer. “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant.” Colossians 4:2.
Stand fast in faith. “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13.
Abound in hope. “Abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13.
Witness to truth. “You will be my witnesses . . to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8.
Persevere with patience. “You have persevered and have patience.” Revelation 2:3.
Value wisdom above all. “Wisdom is supreme; therefore, get wisdom.” Proverbs 4:7
Crave His righteousness. “Blessed are those who hunger for righteousness.” Matthew 5:6.
Live in grace. “Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 2:1.
Strengthen courage. “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart.” Psalm 31:24.
Spiritual atrophy results from apathy. Use it or lose it can well be said about spiritual life and growth. Be advised; both physical and spiritual strength grow best when exercised. Atrophy occurs naturally. Atrophy is an interesting word, defined as, “disinterest, degeneration, decline, or decrease, as from disuse.” You have a spiritual adversary who opposes you in every, diabolical way possible. But you are not alone in the battle. Read Deuteronomy 20:4 NIV.
Today, I pray for you to be vigorous in your defense of the faith.
Christian Communications 2017