Stand

Read

Ephesians 6:13-14 “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.”

Think

Have you ever been to one of those water parks and ridden down a water slide? Imagine this scene: you’re hurtling down that gigantic tube, anticipating a safe landing in a small pool below. But instead, you find yourself fully submerged, disoriented, and struggling to figure out which way is up. Panic sets in, and you start flailing your arms and legs, convinced that this is the end. Your whole life flashes before your eyes. Then, just when you think it is over, you hear a whistle and see a lifeguard reaching out to pull you to safety. Gasping for air, you thank the lifeguard, who seems a bit puzzled by your reaction. He points to a sign by the pool that reads “3 feet,” and says, “All you had to do was stand.” You are shocked to realize that you had been drowning in just three feet of water!

Isn’t that sometimes how life feels? We get overwhelmed by endless to-do lists, challenges with our children, sudden rifts in relationships, work deadlines, or the constant struggle to keep our homes in order. It’s like we’re drowning in responsibilities and emotions, unable to find solid ground.

I may not know exactly what you’re going through right now or what challenges are weighing you down, but I do know this: we have a God who is always ready to reach out and lift us up. During our struggles, he reminds us that he has equipped us with everything we need to stand firm against life’s challenges.

I can almost picture him looking at me with understanding eyes, gently saying, “I’ve given you everything you need. Just stand.” It’s a powerful reminder that we can find strength and victory by standing on his promises and relying on his guidance. So, no matter how deep the waters may seem, remember that you have the ability to stand with God by your side.

Apply

Think about areas of your life where you feel overwhelmed. Write down these areas and then identify one specific action you can take to stand in faith and trust God. It could be seeking counsel, setting healthy boundaries, memorizing Scripture, or consistently praying. Take that step today. He is with you.

Pray

Heavenly Father, thank you for your presence and guidance. Help me to trust in your promise that you are my refuge and strength. Give me the wisdom to discern the practical steps I can take to stand firm in faith. Strengthen me to rely on your Word and to seek your will in all circumstances. May your peace fill me, knowing that you have equipped me with everything I need to glorify you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.