An Army Field Artillery Instructor tells of the dissimilarity in his pupils during two time periods. From 1958-60, the students were lax and slept during lectures. However, the students from 1965-67 were alert and took notes. Class content was the same, so what made the difference? The students from 1965-67 were about to face the enemy in Vietnam.
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. I Corinthians 16:13
Paul wrote today’s verse to the church in Corinth. Spiritual enemies were against them then, just as they are against you today. Paul knew to fight the enemy, one must be prepared. There was confusion among believers then and today as to how to behave and what to believe, so Paul gave four simple commands: 1) Be watchful. Stay awake and aware of the enemy and temptations. Don’t let spiritual sleepiness throw you off guard; 2) Stand firm in the faith. Hold on to His truth. Don’t be seduced by false doctrines; 3) Act like men. Grow up into spiritual maturity. Don’t act like children being selfish and uncontrolled; and 4) Be strong. The strength will not come from you, but from God.
Pray today for you, the country, and its leaders to recognize the enemy and follow these commands given by Paul.
Recommended Reading: I Peter 5:5-12
