Stand Firm: A Midway Call to Perseverance

Eugene Allen • May 18, 2025

Brothers,


As we cross the halfway mark between last October’s men’s retreat and our next gathering this fall, it’s time for a renewed call: “Stand firm in the faith.” Paul’s charge in 1 Corinthians 16:13 - “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong” - rings just as true today as it did for the early church. The months since our retreat have no doubt brought both victories and challenges. Now is the moment to dig in our heels and remain steadfast, not growing weary or distracted as we press toward October.


Standing firm is not about stubbornness or pride. It’s about being immovable in what we know is true, holding fast to God’s revealed will, and refusing to give in to the shifting tides of culture or the subtle temptations of daily life. Paul’s words are a call to spiritual alertness - to be on guard against the enemy, our own sinful desires, and the patterns of this world that would pull us away from Christ.


“Stand fast in the faith” seems to be Paul’s mantra, compelling believers to dig in their heels and remain consistent as they face hardship, danger, persecution, and conflict.


This is not a passive command. To stand firm is to actively hold your ground, to persevere, and to persist even when it would be easier to drift or give up. It means anchoring ourselves in the truth of the gospel, building our lives on the Word of God, and refusing to ride the spiritual rollercoaster of highs and lows, ups and downs. We are not called to retreat or to be tossed about by every new idea or difficulty, but to remain steadfast and confident in Christ.


How do we do this?

  • Stay in the Word: Let the Scriptures be your daily foundation. Know what you believe and why you believe it.
  • Pray for strength: Our power to stand does not come from ourselves, but from God who enables us to persevere.
  • Stand together: Encourage your brothers; accountability and fellowship are vital as we hold the line together.
  • Remember the goal: We are not standing firm for our own sake, but for the glory of Christ and the good of those around us.

As we look ahead to the next retreat, let’s not coast or grow complacent. Instead, let’s be men who stand firm-immovable, courageous, and unwavering in our faith. The world needs men who will not give up or give in, but who will hold fast to Christ, no matter the cost.


Let’s press on, brothers. Stand firm.



Reflection Question: Where are you most tempted to waver right now, and how can you stand firm in that area this week?